[Effect of 6-hydroxydopamine intracerebrally injected on reproduction in rats (author's transl)]. The effect of 6-hydroxidopamine (6-OH-DA) --250 mug-- intracerebrally injected on rat ovulation has been studied. Administration of 6-OH-DA in the nucleus accumbens septi and its heigbhourhood, inhibited follicle rupture, causing ovarian cycles with leucocitary phases in nearly all cases. The ovaries present a deep lutteynitation. Administration of 6-OH-DA in the strio-hypothalamic tract gives rise to a estrogenic cycle and to a normal number of oocytes in the tubes. The study of the fibrillar degeneration leads us to assumption of a probable adrenergic connections of the nucleus accumbens septi with the lateral hypothalamic area, preoptic area and olfactory tubercule. The influence of the nucleus accumbens septi on the mechanisms of follicle rupture is stressed.


[Effect of various coumarins on the intestinal absorption of galactose in vivo (author's transl)]. The effect of various coumarins on the active transport of galactose by small intestine in chick and rat was studied, using the in vivo technique of sucessive absorptions. A 10(-4) M concentration of the different coumarins inhibits the absorption of galactose in the chick. This effect persists in successive absorptions without coumarin. In rat, inhibition of galactose active transport by coumarins was observed at 10(-3) M concentration.


Active transport of sugars by the intestine of snail (Cryptomphalus hortensis Müller). Sugar transport by sacs of everted intestine of snail have been measured in vitro at 30 degrees C. D-galactose, D-glucose and 3-O-methylglucose were actively transported against a concentration gradient from the mucosal to the serosal compartment. The transport of these sugars was inhibited by 5 times 10(-8) to 10(-6) M phlorizin. L-arabinose was also accumulated in the serosal compartment against a concentration gradient; in this case, transport was not affected by phlorizin. The snail intestine did not show any ability for D-fructose active transport but there was a clear uptake of this sugar by the tissue. The O2 uptake of the snail intestine was not significantly affected by the presence of either sugars or phlorizin.


Effect of anaerobiosis, dinitrophenol and fluoride on the active intestinal transport of galactose in snail. The active transport of galactose across the intestinal wall (everted sacs) of the snail Cryptomphalus hortensis Müller has been studied in vitro, under several metabolic conditions. Anaerobiosis does not change the serosal/mucosal galactose gradients which are developed in oxygen atmosphere. Dinitrophenol (10(-4) M) greatly increased the O2 uptake by the tissue and clearly inhibits the sugar transport. At 5 times 10(-4) M concentration, DNP totally prevents the uphill transport while the O2 uptake is normal. The inhibition produced by DNP does not increase by anaerobiosis. Fluoride inhibits the galactose transport and also the O2 uptake. It is deduced that in snail intestine the energy for the active transport of galactose can be supplied by aerobic as much as by anaerobic metabolism. The inhibition by dinitrophenol seems to be independent of its uncoupling action on the oxidative phosphorylation. The inhibitory effect of NaF may be due both to glycolisis inhibition and to alteration of the digestive epithelium.


[Posterior hypothalamus action on gastric secretion (author's transl)]. Three groups of cats with surgically created total gastric pouches were employed in this experiment. They were divided as follows: in one group the innervation of the pouch was left intact; in another group the symphathetic innervation of the pouch was removed; and in the third group the pouch was completely denervated. It was seen that an infusion of histamine induced gastric secretion in all three groups. And when the secretion became constant it proved to be less acidic and more abundant in the sympathectomized group and also in the group that had suffered complete denervation. It was observed now that stimulating the posterior hypothalamus of the innervated group produced, in all of the cats, a decrease in the amount of acid secreted per unit of time. Consequently, it was seen that a symphathectomy did not eliminate the gastric effects produced when the posterior hypothalamus was stimulated. Specifically, stimulation of the posterior hypothalamus produced an increase in the amount of secretion rather than a decrease. The increase produced in these animals can be shown not to be due to irradiation of the anterior hypothalamus as the same response is obtained when a symphathectomy is combined with a vagotomy. It is, therefore, believed that it may be concluded that the Posterior hypothalamus does not produce its effect exclusively through its nervous pathways. It is believed its effect may possibly be mediated by an unknown substance liberated upon stimulation which then reaches the stomach by way of its blood supply.


Isocitrate lyase activities in Pinus pinea seeds. Some features of cytoplasmic and glyoxysomal isocitrate lyase obtained from stratified and germinated P. pinea seeds, respectively, are described. Both activities showed a different electrophoretic mobility on cellulose acetate and elution behaviour on Sephadex G-200. Cycloheximide inhibited the increase of both activities during the first days of germination. Chloramphenicol did not show the same effect.


[Radioimmunologic method for the measurement of plasmatic LH in humans (author's transl)]. A simple radioimmunologic method for the measurement of plasmatic LH concentration is described. This procedure utilizes a second antibody for the separation by precipitation of the bound from the free hormone. LH is labelled with 125I by means of a modified Greenwood and Hunter Chloramine T procedure. Three reference compounds, LER-907, MRC 68/40 and 2nd IRP-HMG, have been compared. The daily plasma concentrations of LH along the menstrual cycle in 12 young normal women and the changes induced by 100 mug LHRH were measured, validating the method used since it is capable of detecting the expected variations.


Marihuana metabolites in urine of man. V. Characterization and separation of polar metabolites of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Extraction of human urine with ether at pH 12 and thin-layer chromatography using two solvent systems permitted separation of several polar metabolites of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), not previously isolated by these techniques. These metabolites appeared as conjugates and are probably dihydroxy alcohols.


Identification of a metabolite of thioridazine and mesoridazine from human plasma. The major unknown component present in the plasma of all subjects given thioridazine (la) or mesoridazine (lb) has been identified by TLC, GC, and mass spectrometry as thioridazine side-chain sulfone (sulforidazine) (1c).


Pharmacological actions of some simple analogues of reserpine. I. Analgesic effects. In view of the fact that reserpine treatment lowers pain threshold, structural analogues of reserpine molecule were tested against thermal and visceral pain. Some compounds belonging to piperidino- and morpholino derivatives of acetanilide showed promising analgesic activity. These compounds in earlier studies had shown tranquillizing effect. Combination studies with meperidene, phenylbutazone, phenazone and meprobamate did not significantly change the analgesic activity in thermal methods but the test-compounds were potentiated by phenylbutazone and phenazone in writhing test.


Pharmacological actions of some simple analogues of reserpine. II. Anticonvulsant effects. Reserpine analogues obtained from strip-down parts of the parent molecule were studied for their effects on experimental convulsive seizures and amphetamine antagonism. The unsubstituted and M-methoxy substituted piperidino- and morpholino acetanilides derived from A, B and C rings or reserpine showed prominent anticonvulsant activity as against the known lowering of threshold activity by reserpine. Methoxy morpholino derivative showed prominent activity with least sedative effect. gamma-Piperidino acetanilide showed a dual effect such that at higher doses it itself produced clocin covulsions. The effects were non-specific since they unpreferentially antagonized the maximal electrochock, Metrazol and strychnine convulsions Compounds derived from C, D and E rings of reserpine did not significantly increase or decrease the seizure thresholds.


Characteristics of uptake of [3-H](plus or minus)-metaraminol by human fallopian tube. The characteristics of accumulation of 5 X 10 minus8M [3-H] (plus or minus)-metaraminol were studied in isolated human fallopian tube. In both the ampulla and isthmus, the amine was concentrated against the concentration gradient; Accumulation  was inhibited by noradrenaline, cocaine, and ouabain but not by oxytetracycline or normetanephrine. It was concluded that [3-H] (plus or minus)-metaraminol was accumulated in the adrenergic nerves present in the human fallopian tube.


Dose dependent kinetics of carbamazepine in the monkey. The blood concentration-time curve of carbamazepine in monkeys following intravenous infusion of the drug at two different levels was determined using a specific gas liquid chromatographic assaymconcentration values measured over a two and one-half decade concentration range during zero order infusion as well as the decay portion of the curve for both doses were computer fit using a nonlinear least-squares program and found to follow Michaelis-Menten kinetics. There was little change found in the volume of distribution for carbamazepine from monkey to monkey, however, marked differences were noted in the metabolic rate constants.


Comparison of 3,4-dimethoxyphenylethylamine treated plasma from chronic schizophrenics and controls. Plasma samples were collected from chronic schizophrenic patients not on drug therapy and from non-psychotic hospital volunteet controls and incubated with 3,4-dimethoxywhenylethylamine (DMPEA) when injected into monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) pretreated mice who were then aggregated (groups of 5 ea.) for four hours, the two kinds of plasma produced results so similar that no differences between them could be observed. Doubling the amount of plasma and DMPEA likewise failed to differentiate plasma origin. In our hands no differentiation between plasma samples from control subjects and schizophrenic patients could be determined under the conditions employed.


Alcohol drinking in the rat after destruction of serotonergic and catecholaminergic neurons in the brain. Rats were offered solutions of ethyl alcohol that were increased in strength from 3-30% concentration over a 12 day interval. Then, 50 mug 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine (5,6-DHT), 200 mug 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), or 100 mug 5, 7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) were injected acutely into the lateral cerebral ventricle in a 20 mul volume. The selection of ethyl alcohol was enhanced following the lesioning of serotonergic neurons by 5,6-DHT in terms of preference-aversion curves as well as the gm/kg intakes. Conversely, a similar destruction of dopamine and norepinephrine containing neurons by 6-OHDA marked suppressed alcohol preference and the overall intake of this fluid. 5,7-DHT had an intermediary effect of alcohol intake. These findings support the concept that the selection or rejection of alcohol may depend on an imbalance in the neuronal activity of either monoaminergic system in the brain of the rat.


Effects of methamphetamine on the isolated rat phrenic nerve-diaphragm preparation. Low concentrations of methamphetamine facilitated twitch, while higher concentrations produced dose-dependent blockade of twitch indirectly elicited. Methamphetamine facilitated twitch elicited by direct stimulation; These findings suggest that methamphetamine-induced enhancement in physical endurance and performance in moderate doses, and muscle weakness at high doses, may be attributed to drug effects at a peripheral site of action.


Differences of reabsorption of unconjugated BSP and BSP-glutathione from the rat biliary tree after retrograde intrabiliary injection. It has been shown that water and electrolytes are reabsorbed from the biliary tract of the rat. Furthermore there are some suggestions for the reabsorption of organic compounds during their passage down the biliary tract. Our results presented in this paper demonstrate a different mode of biliary excretion of unconjugated BSP [BSP-U] and BSP- glutathione [BSP-GSH] after retrograde intrabiliary injection, BSP-GSH is excreted to a much greater extent than BSP-U within the first 5 minutes after retrograde administration. In other terms BSP-GSH is reabsorbed to a lesser extent than BSP-U. Additionally the reabsorption of BSP-U and BSP-G after retrograde injection seems to be dependent on the concentration and the contact time in the biliary tree. It is suggested that the different biliary excretion of BSP-U and BSP-GSH after intravenous injection might be explained partly by a different reabsorption mode.


[Method for the isolation of human glomerular basement membrane (author's transl)]. In order to obtain pure glomerular basement membrane for chemical analysis, we could develop the following method. The isolated glomeruli are treated with a 0.08% polyoxyethylene-sorbitaine-monooleate for 3-5 minutes and they are homogenized in this detergent. The homogenate obtained is placed in a sucrose gradient with the specific density between 1021 to 1081. After standing for 30 minutes in a refrigator, the homogenate was separated into three layers. The uppermost layer contained fragmented cell debris, the second layer was consisted of the endothelial and epithelial cells. In the third layer, which was clearly separated from upper two layers by the translucent zone, the basement membrane were found. The position of the third layer is different in normal and pathological glomeruli, and the width of the layer is very narrow. According to this method only a very little contamination with other glomerular cell fraction is observed. The application of the 0.08% polyoxyethylene-sorbitane-monooleate did not induce any appreciable change in the structure of basement membrane, because carbohydrate composition and sialic acid content of this preparation were essentially identical with the data reported by several authors who prepared basement membrane by ultrasonic method. Electron microscope also revealed that the isolated glomerular basement membrane preserved lamina densa completely attached with partly stripped lamina rara interna and externa. Our method to break glomeruli is inexpensive and less time-consuming than the breakage with ultrasonic vibration. Isolation procudure with density gradient is obviously superior to the simple centrifugation or settling method adopted by others.


[Prophylaxis of acute gastric erosions with vitamin A in the rat (author's transl)]. The protective effect of Vitamin A against stress-induced ulcerations of the gastric mucosa was investigated by the hypoxic stress model of the rat. The incidence of acute mucosal erosions in the main stomach was significantly reduced by intramuscular application of 125 000 - 500 000 U Vitamin A/kg body weight prior to or immediately after the onset of stress. A dosage smaller than that or an application 2 hours after the onset of stress had no influence on the development of the acute mucosal erosions.


The toxicity of human serum against Ehrlich cells--an attempt at characterizing responsible components. A biochemical characterization of the toxic action of human serum on murine Ehrlich ascites tumor cells was attempted. Some observations are consistent, other inconsistent, with the hypothesis of complement dependent antibodies reacting with ubiquitous antigens on these cells. Studies using various serum fractions, and with pure preparations of human serum proteins, have not given consistent results. Of particular interest is the puzzling observation that the toxic action of human serum fractions sometimes only appears some time after the fractionation.


[Breath acetone and ketonemia in normal- and overweight subjects during total fasting (author's transl)]. In subjects of ideal weight (7 males and 7 females) total whole blood ketones and breath acetone were determined during a 6 day fast, and in obese subjects (8 males, 18 females) during 6-28 days of fasting. Development of starvation ketosis was significantly slower in overweight than in normal weight subjects. Breath acetone concentration was up to blood ketone levels of 4 mMol/1 a linear function of the blood ketone concentration, beyond that level, however, an additional exponential component became apparent. The highest acetone elimination found was 4.46 mg/min, corresponding to 6.4 g acetone and 11.2 g acetoacetic acid in 24 hours. Hence the decarboxylation of acetoacetic acid to acetone may be an additional mechanism for the lowering of ketoacidosis in starvation.


[The Goettingen miniature swine as an experimental animal. 1. Review of literature, breeding and handling, cardiovascular parameters]. The miniature swine is steadily gaining prominence as a laboratory animal. This paper attempts to survey the existing literature concerning the Göttinger Minipig and to give some information about breeding, growth-rate and handling. Further studies dealing with the circulation (ECG, blood pressure and heart-rate) of conscious minipigs are reported. In this regard, the Göttinger Minipig is shown, to display a more favorable ratio between diastole and systole than normal swine.


[Electrolyte- and urea concentration profiles of the kidney in experimental asymmetric glomerulonephritis (author's transl)]. Bilateral studies on kidney function concerning the electrolyte and urea concentration-profiles in renal medulla were performed in experimental unilateral acute glomerulonephritis in rabbits. 1. Both in the intact and in the glomerulonephritic kidneys sodium is concentrated mainly in the outer medulla and urea in the inner medulla. 2. In the glomerulonephritic kidneys the reduction of the filtered load seems to impair the regions of mainly passive concentrating mechanisms more than those of mainly active transport mechanisms. 3. Potassium gradients are not involved, the tissue concentrations of the glomerulonephritic kidneys however are diminished by 20 %. 4. According to the decreasing interstital electrolyte and urea gradients the osmolarity of the collecting ducts of the glomerulonephritic kidneys are diminished. These results support the conclusion, that the urinary concentrating defect in Masuginephritis is due mainly to the unability to concentrate urea.


Comparative kinetics of 45Ca and 89Sr in chronic uremic syndrome in the rat. In rats a chronic uremic syndrome was induced by 5/6 resection and subsequent irradiation of the kidneys. After 5 weeks 45Ca and 89Sr were injected simultaneously, and the different metabolic handling of the two elements was determined applying an open two-compartment model of Calcium kinetics. The uremic animals were compared with two groups of rats which were pairfed, and fed ad libitum, respectively. Besides an elevenfold faster urinary excretion when calculated with Sr, and which was reduced to about one half in the uremic rats, a significant discrimination by bone in favour of Ca was found, with a rather stable factor of 1.2 in the three groups. This is considered to evidence that urinary excretion and bon uptake of Sr are independent processes.


[New method for the long-term cannulation of the common bile duct in the dog]. A new method for long term cannulation of the common bile duct in dogs is reported. The procedure is carried out with a T-tube, which is brought out through the abdominal wall. There it is rolled up in the hole of an implanted Thomas cannula. - A reliable protection from removal by the animal. The result in 9 dogs was very good, the longest duration of cannulation was 9 months.


An epidemiological study of acute herniated lumbar intervertebral discs. In an epidemiological study of acute herniated lumbar intervertebral discs in the New Haven, Connecticut (U.S.A.), area, it was found that this condition was most likely to be diagnosed among persons in the age group 30-39 years, and that the most important risk factors among the variable considered in this study were driving of motor vehicles at or away from work, sedentary occupations, suburban residence, and previous full-term pregnancies. Variables for which there was some suggestion of an association but for which the evidence was inconclusive were the male sex, high social class among females, chronic cough and chronic bronchitis, participation in baseball, golf and bowling, the spring and fall seasons, and possibly lack of physical activity other than at work. No increase in risk for this condition was related to race, social class in males, smoking habits, participation in sports other than baseball, golf and bowling, weight or body bulk, recent episodes of emotional stress, pregnancies which were not full-term, and jobs involving lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying.


A combined flexi-rule/hydrogoniometer for measurement of lumbar spine and its sagittal movement. A portable device is described which can record contours of the spine when standing normally and in extreme postures of flexion and extension. It can also give a numerical record of the range of lumbar movement and of the angles to the vertical in which the sacrum and upper spine are held in relation to the lordotic curve. It is felt that the device may be useful for clinical reports, ongoing assessments of therapy, and for epidemiological studies. Its use as a predictor of those at risk to develop low-back pain or for prognosis in established cases remains to be tested. The device has been used in a back-pain clinic and in an epidemiological survey, where it has been found to be assay and quick to use. Further adaptations may be found to be desirable; these would not detract from the usefulness of the device in that successive readings would still be comparable.


Measurement of spinal mobility: a comparison of three methods. Three techniques for measuring spinal mobility, with special reference to ankylosing spondylitis --the spondylometer, the goniometer, and a skin of distraction method--are discussed, and their accuracies and feasibilities compared. The spondylometer was found to be the quickest method, but of limited applicability to certain movements only, the goniometer the most versatile and of acceptable accuracy, and the skin distraction method inaccurate and complicated.


Oxygen consumption by granulation tissue in bipedicle tube flaps. The oxygen consumption rate (QO2) of granulation tissue from cylinders implanted in bipedicle tube flaps of rabbits was measured weeks 2 to 7 in vitro in a Biological Oxygen Monitor. Granulation tissue from cylinders implanted in skin folds was used as control. The QO2 of granulation tissue decreased slowly as the oxygen tension in the medium fell. All measurements were made at an oxygen tension of 75 mmHg. At week 2 the QO2 of granulation tissue in flaps was high and a decrease occurred between week 2 and week 4. A further decrease took place between weeks 6 and 7 and a very low QO2 was found at week 7. Control granulation tissue showed a higher QO2 than skin flap granulation tissue at weeks 3, 4, 5 and 7.


Kidney tubular cell proliferation in burned mice. Kidney tubular cell proliferation after a 17%, sublethal, third-degree burn injury in mice was studied in vivo using tritiated thymidine. Changes in cell morphology were also followed. Total incorporation of 3H-TdR in renal cells was measured and autoradiographic analyses of the tubular cells in the renal cortex and in the stratum subcorticale were made 2 hours to 30 days after the injury. After the second day postburn there was a 3.5-fold stimulation in the total incorporation of 3H-TdR in DNA, and an 18-fold increase in the labelling index of tubular cells. The majority of the labelled cells were proximal tubular cells. After the third day postburn a moderate increase in the labelling index (7.5-fold) was observed; 40% of the labelled cells were distal tubular cells. No morphological signs of frank necrosis of the tubular cells could be observed in the burned mice within 3 days postburn, which indicates that the stimulated proliferation of the kidney tubular cells was induced by minor reversible tubular cell damage during the first few hours postburn. It is suggested that the tubular cells loose their normal growth-inhibiting factors through an altered cell wall which results in an abnormal stimulation of cell growth 2 days later. These findings support the idea that there are abnormalities in the regulation of cell growth in several organs after burn injury; in some tissues--as in the kidney--this results in a temporary insufficiency of organ function.


On the regeneration of cartilage after x-irradiation. A study on rabbits ears. The present investigation demonstrates cartilage healing in experimental defects in rabbits ears. The authors confirm the importance of the presence of the perichondrium. Ears X-irradiated with disages of 2 000-4 000 R show a reduced healing capacity as compared with control ears.


The pathogenesis of cauliflower ear. An experimental study in rabbits. Appreciating an imcomplete understanding of the pathogenesis of cauliflower ear, an experimental study was designed to demonstrate the pathophysiology of this deformity. The investigation was conducted in 2-month-old rabbits. In one ear a collection of blood was placed under the raised perichondrium which was then sutured back in place and the skin closed. In the other ear an equal amount of blood was deposited between the intact perichondrium and skin. In the first study new cartilage developed under the perichondrium, but in the ear in which the blood was left above the surface of the perichondrium-covered cartilage, complete resorption of the clot occurred. The cauliflower ear was thus shown to be generating cartilage, arising from a layer of raised perichondrium which was further stimulated by a sero-sanguinous medium. The subperichondrial hematoma was extensively invaded by chondroblasts within 2 weeks, and over a period of 4 weeks the new tissue gradually changed into more mature cartilage. It was a consistent finding that the separated perichondrium retracted, thus causing the original cartilage to rise and buckle over the hamatoma, similar to the picture observed in the human pathology.


Abrasio axillae in hyperhidrosis.

Abrasio axillae in hyperhidrosis. Forty-one patients with hyperhidrosis axillae were operated on. The subcutaneous curettage in 20 patients was compared with radical excision in 21 patients. Comparison of the results of both operations disclosed no difference in the elimination of the sweat secretion, but the method of curretage is superior, because it can be repeated if necessary and leaves practically no scars.


Skin reduction plasties following intestinal shunt operations for treatment of obesity. A unique group of more than 100 selected cases were treated surgically for massive obesity, a mal-absorption syndrome, by an intestinal shunt used to obtain significant weight reduction. The loss of skin elasticity of the slimming patient leads to a "redundant skin syndrome" creating dermatologic-cosmetic as well as psychiatric problems. A series of reductive skin plasties were performed beginning when the patient's body weight had been stable for some months. The redundant skin was found mainly in two contralateral areas: on both sides of the axillae: on the medial aspect of the upper arm and laterally below the breast, and on both sides of the inguinal ligament, on the lower abdomen and on the medial aspect of the thigh. Thirty-eight patients of the group had skin reduction plasties. The operations were performed on each site separately with a few months' interval. Operative techniques and results are presented.


Protein synthesis by granulation tissue in bipedicle tube flaps. The protein synthesis and the collagen synthesis by 2- to 7-week-old granulation tissue from implanted cylinders in bipedicle tube flaps on rabbits were measured in vitro by the incorporation of 14C-proline in proteins and in collagen hydroxyproline. Granulation tissue from cylinders implanted in skin folds were used as controls. In the skin flap group the protein synthesis was high at week 2, after which it decreased to week 5. In the controls the protein synthesis was the same as in the skin flap group at week 2. A decrease occurred between weeks 2 and 4 and a further decrease between weeks 6 and 7. At weeks 5 and 6 the protein synthesis was higher in the controls than in the skin flap group, but at week 7 it was the reverse. The collagen synthesis was high and equal in both groups at weeks 2 and 3 and then decreased to weeks 4 and 5. Between weeks 6 and 7 a further decrease was found in the controls, but not in the skin flap group.


Implants designed for finger joints. A roentgenorgraphic study and a study of implant wear and tear. Two types of flexible finger implants (one intramedullary movable, the Silastic Finger Joint Implant, Swanson design, and the other presumable intramedullary fixed, the Niebauer T-M Cutter Metacarpophalangeal Joint Prosthesis) were subjected to animal trials. Forty-four Swanson implants and 33 Niebauer implants were implanted in the knee joint of rabbits. Roentgenographic examinations were carried out immediately after surgery and then at monthly intervals. The joint was examined in the lateral projection in a flexed and in an extended position to obtain better information about the behaviour of the implant. The Swanson implant was assessed as being intramedullary movable. The Niebauer implant was found to bend within other parts than just the thin central part of the midsection as it is supposed to do. Intramedullary bone formation was seen along the distal stem of the Swanson implant. It developed in a very typical manner considered to be related to the motion of the stem. A similar phenomenon was seen along the distal stem of some of the Niebauer implants and was considered a sign of insufficient fixation of the stem. Cortical erosion and periosteal callus formation were found in the femur at the site at which the proximal stem of the Swanson implant was in direct contact with the bone. The implants were examined at autopsy both in situ and after removal. The Swanson implants showed consistently a wearing of the surface and a permanent deformation. Isolated cracks were seen in 8/44 implants, while fractures, either isolated or in combination with cracks and/or fragmentation, were seen in 22/44 implants. It was not possible to evaluate deformation of the Niebauer implants. Slight wearing was seen in 4/32 implants. Cracks, fragmentations and fractures were seen either isolated (except for the fragmentations) or in different combinations with no specific pattern in 25/32 implants. The combination of inelastic dacron fibres and elastic silicone rubber in one functional unit as in the Niebauer implant was considered the main cause of the damage.


Roentgenographic examination of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Roentgenographic examination of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the index, long, ring and the little fingers is carried out routinely in antero-posterior (AP) and oblique lateral projections, while pictures in the straight lateral projection of each joint are hard to evaluate because of overprojection of the other metacarpal bones and proximal phalanges. A technique was devised to examine each joint separately in the straingt lateral projection by means of tomography. This is presented together with the technique for examination of the joint in the AP-projection. The tomograms in the lateral projection were found to be more valuable when carried out in active maximal extension as well as flexion. The great advantage of this method, particularly in examinations for scientific evaluation, has been demonstrated in repeated postoperative studies of 98 metacarpophalangeal joints.


Repair of persistent perineal sinuses by means of a pedicle flap of musculus gracilis. Case report. Chronic suppurating perineal sinuses are common following proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Repeated surgery along conservative lines is often likely to result in failure. If a tissue with normal potentiality for healing is brought to the area of delayed healing, a reasonable chance of success will be achieved. This hypothesis was put forward by Graham (1965) who supported his theory by presenting outstanding results by using a pedicle flap of gracilis in the treatment of rectovaginal fistulas following irradiation. In the present study, Graham's technique was adapted in the treatment of chronic persistent perineal sinuses. The results are promising and the procedure is worth trying in the treatment of longstanding sinuses which fail to heal by conservative methods.


Distal ulnar nerve compression caused by ganglion formation in the loge de Guyon. Case report. The passage of the ulnar nerve through the loge de Guyon at the volar aspect of the wrist is defined and described anatomically. Two cases with symptoms of nerve compression at this level are presented and the syndrome discussed.


Histochemical studies of end-plate formation in free autologous muscle transplants in cats. End-plate formation in free autologous transplants of previously denervated whole muscles in adult cats were studied with a histochemical technique for cholinesterase. Grafts from 5 to 40 weeks old have been examined. The original end-plates degenerated and could not be seen in transplants older than 9 weeks. New, immature end-plates formed at many sites in the transplants. They were seen as early as 5 weeks after transplantation. They progressively increased in number during the first 12 weeks. In the oldest transplants the end-plates were relatively mature and appeared in clusters or were scattered.


Physiological responses to exercise in patients following fracture of the lower limb. Twenty-five patients with healed fractures of the lower limb and nine normal control subjects were measured anthropometrically and during maximal and submaximal one- and two-leg bicycle exercise. Oxygen intake at a given submaximal work level of 450 kmp min-1 and cardiac frequency at an oxygen intake of 1.5 I min-1 were significantly higher (p less than 0.001) in the injured compared with the uninjured limbs of the patients and normal subjects. The maximum aerobic power of the injured and uninjured limbs of the patients and normal subjects. The maximum aerobic power of the injured and uninjured limbs of the patients were 18.8% (0.44 I min-1) and 25.6% (0.61 I min-1) respectively lower than the right and left legs of the control subjects. The corresponding value for 2-leg work was 17.6% (0.51 I min-1). The deterioration in 1-leg performance of the patients was associated with a concomitant decrease in leg muscle (plus bone) volume. In 2-leg work this factor was also probably combined with a deterioration in performance due to general cardiovascular deconditioning.


Physical work capacity and the effect of training on subjects with long-standing paraplegia. Twelve rehabilitated praplegic subjects were examined for aerobic work capacity and muscle strength. Subsquently 7 of them trained intensively for 7 weeks, following a training programme aimed at improving both maximal oxygen uptake and maximal dynamic strength and endurance. Results showed a significant increase in these parameters as well as in mechanical efficiency and in subjective well-being.


Occupational resettlement in aphasia.

Occupational resettlement in aphasia. An account is given of the occupational resettlement and progress of four patients with severe dysphasia, due to cerebrovascular accidents. The dysphasia was predominantly expressive in two cases and predominantly receptive in the other two. Three of the patients were resettled in gainful employment and the fourth in a sheltered occupation. In all four cases, the patients attained a very adequate level of working efficiency, distinctly above what had been anticipated on clinical and psychometric grounds. While these results are encouraging, it is stressed that fuller and more extensive long-term follow-up studies of occupational resettlement in aphasia are necessary before firm conclusions can be drawn.


The effect of Dantrium on spasticity in spinal cord injuries. The effect of a new, peripherally acting muscle relaxant drug (Dantrium) on spasticity was tested on 6 patients with spinal cord injuries. The effect was evaluated both by regular clinical examination and with an electromyographic technique. The latter concerned a quantitative analysis of the patients' ability to voluntarily control fine neuromuscular activity both with and without the drug. The results indicated that the spasticity was initially markedly reduced in all patients; in one case so markedly that the stability of the trunk was lost. Electromyographically it was found that the ability of the patients to relax the muscles was increased with Dantrium.


Lifting burden for a nursing aide during patient care in a geriatric ward. The lifting burden of a nursing aide during work in a geriatric ward was determined by using a force-plate. Three lifting operations were performed for all patients needing lifting assistance. At the same time as the forces obtained from the force-plate were recorded, the lifts were photographed. The lifting burden during nursing often equalled or exceeded the recommendations of various authors concerning permissible maximum weight loads during different types of lifts. The lifts were often performed under unfavourable conditions and seldom with an "ideal" lifting technique.


The post-stroke hemiplegic patient. II. Incidence, mortality, and vocational return in Göteborg, Sweden with a review of the literature. A review of recent literature on incidence, mortality and prevalence of stroke with special emphasis on hemiplegia is given. A combined retrospective/prospective study of first stroke with hemiplegia before age 66 shows identical age-specific incidence 1965/66 and five years later 1970/71. The mortality rates are also nearly identical during one year after stroke. Half-survival time is 6 years. 32% of all 6-year survivors and 41% of those who had only one stroke return to a vocation. Return to work is correlated to degree of motor handicap and probably also to age. In the Swedish population of 8 million, each year about 2,300 individuals, still in their vocationally active years, fall victim to first stroke with hemiplegia. Of these, more than 1,000 will survive more than 6 years, but only about 300--400 of these can under the present circumstances be actively re-employed. It is felt that more active vocational measures would be beneficial for both handicapped individuals and society.


Scales of gravity in head injury.

Scales of gravity in head injury. From the head injury onward the victim loses control over his own existence and starts a long journey through the various fields of forces determining his destiny until he can reassume control. Scales of gravity applied at different points in time vary and sometimes contradict each other. The vital scale is an immediate emergency scale, determined by the need to save a life, observe and treat a coma, and detect early complications, and the criteria are those of intensive care, surgery, and neurosurgery. The neurological and neuropsychological scale established towards the end of the first hospitalisation, assesses brain damage by neurological investigations, ophthalmological and otological tests and a neuropsychological evaluation. First individual psychiatric reactions appear at this stage. The psychosocial scale should consider information provided by previous scales, but also evaluate pre- and post-traumatic personality, family setting, social, legal, administrative and economic realities, residual skills, previous profession, possibilities of reinstatement and above all, motivation. Probably the neurological and neuropsychological scale provide the best common point of reference for a global assessment. These scales of gravity are examined in their relationship to traditional clinical thinking in different countries. A prospective and descriptive system of a "European" cofification as proposed within the framework of the European Communities is described.


Course and severity of bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis in a local Swedish population sample. A population sample between 35 and 54 years of age with chronic obstructive lung disease was investigated. The material consisted of 86 persons with bronchial asthma (without chronic bronchitis), 69 with chronic bronchitis (without asthma) and 30 with a combination of chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma. Of the 116 asthmatics 51 had reaginic bronchial allergy. Twenty-three subjects developed bronchoconstriction on exercise testing: 14 of these had asthma, one bronchitis and eight had a combination of the two. Onset of disease before 15 years of age was unusual in pure bronchitis (9%), although more common in pure asthma and in asthma with bronchitis (23-29%). The mean number of days of incapacity during the preceding 12 months was only 6, both in pure asthma and pure bronchitis, but it was more frequent, 22-26, in asthma with bronchitis and in exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. In asthma the multiple regression analyses showed that impaired spirometric values before or after taking a bronchodilating drug were correlated with the duration of incapacity in days and with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. In bronchitis, impaired spirometric values were found to be correlated with the number of symptomatic days (during the preceding 12 months) and with smoking.


Bronchodilatory and circulatory effects of inhaling increasing doses of an anti-cholinergic drug, ipratropium bromide (SCH 1000). Dynamic spirometry with flow-volume curves and measurement of static lung volumes in a body plethysmograph were done in 11 patients with reversible airways obstruction before and up to 240 min after inhalation of 20 mug SCH 1000 and of another 40 mug 60 min later. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), vital capacity (VC) and maximal expiratory flow at 50% VC (V 50% VC) increased successively, reaching maximum after 120 min. In a second part of the study 13 patients inhaled 2+4+8 puffs of SCH 1000 (280 mug in all) at 30-min intervals. PEFR increased significantly up to 224 l/min (44% of predicted normal), with increasing number of SCH 1000 inhalations; no further general effect occurred after additional 3 puffs of terbutaline. Heart rate and blood pressure showed no clinically significant changes. No subjective or objective side-effects were noted.


Regional distribution of a 133Xe labelled gas volume inspired at constant flow rates. We measured the regional distribution of 480 ml of 133Xe labelled gases inspired from FRC at constant inspiratory flow rates ranging from 0.1 to 6 litres/s. The gases used were air and 20% O2 in helium. At low inspiratory flow rates the gas was preferentially delivered to the dependent region of the lung. At maximal inspiratory flows, all regions of the lung were more evenly ventilated. The rate of redistribution was found to be slower and more even than in previous studies using smaller volumes of inspired gas. Assuming equal and synchronous changes of pleural surface pressure, these results can be reasonably predicted by the mechanical time constant theory applied to a simple two-compartment lung model based on equal regional resistances. Breathing the HeO2 mixture did not significantly change ventilation distribution at any flow rate.


Delayed hypersensitivity in patients with bronchial carcinoma. Delayed hypersensitivity skin test reactions have been carried out in patients with bronchial carcinoma. Dinitrochlorobenzene, used as a parameter of newly induced cell-mediated immunity, was clearly suppressed, and this suppression was associated with a poor prognosis. Tuberculin reactivity, used as a parameter of the memory function of the cell-mediated immune system, was not altered, and bears no relation to prognosis.


Smoking and pulmonary diffusing capacity. The pulmonary diffusing capacity (DLCO SB) and its two components, the capillary blood volume (Vc) and the diffusing capacity of the membrane (DMCO), expressed in absolute values and per litre of alveolar volume (VA'), were measured at rest and on exercise in healthy male smokers and nonsmokers of similar age and height, and with identical values for haemoglobin and spirographic data. DLCO, DLCO/VA', DMCO and DMCO/VA' are significantly lower in smokers, at rest and on exercise; the decrease in Vc and thetaVc/VA' in smokers at rest is due to a higher level of carboxyhaemoglobin. The decrease of DLCO, DLCO/VA', DMCO and DMCO/VA' is apparently not due to carboxyhaemoglobin or distributional factors but to anatomical lesions, probably of emphysematous nature, altering the pulmonary membrane. Formulas predicting DLCO, DMCO, Vc, DLCO/VA', DMCO/VA' and thetaVc/VA' in terms of age and height were established in smokers and in nonsmokers.


[Classification of thyroid gland tumors in accordance with 1974 WHO nomenclature. Histological follow-up examination of 327 malignant thyroid gland tumors]. In 1974 an international histological classification of thyroid tumours was published by the World Health torganization, Geneva (WHO). It usefulness has been tested on the surgical specimens of 353 patients with malignant or probably malignant thyroid tumours analyzed at the Institute of Pathology, University of Zürich, from 1962 to 1973. 10 out of the 353 histologically reexamined cases had to be eliminated because of insufficient material. Of the remaining 343 tumours only 30 (10%) are difficult to classify according to the WHO nomenclature. 13 of these 34 tumours can be classified as differentiated carcinomas, though a clear distinction between follicular and papillary carcinoma is not possible. In 21 of the 34 doubtful cases the problems are of definite clinical importance: in 9 of them it cannot be decided on morphological grounds alone whether the tumor is malignant or not; 7 tumours cannot definitely be differentiated from metastases in the thyroid; and in 5 tumours it is not possible to determine the grade of differentiation. Considering that 90% of our tumours are easily classifiable, the WHO nomenclature represents - for pathologists as well as for clinicians - a distinct and simple basis for the classification of thyroid cancers. There is no need to overemphasize the difficulties of differential diagnosis in about 10% of the tumours since in only 6,2% of all tumours do these difficulties have real bearing on therapeutic procedure. Moreover, these problems concern questions of malignancy or metastases and are quite indipendent of any kind of nomenclature.


[Biology of the house dust mite dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. II. Incidence of mites in the various regions of Switzerland and its dependence on climate]. Seasonal examinations of dust samples from Basel and surroundings have shown that the number of mites increases during the months of August through October. Dust samples were then collected from various climatic regions of Switzerland during August and tseptember. Samples originating from places where the temperature was above 12 degrees C and relative humidity above 68% over a period of 4-5 months yielded a high mite count. Regions with these climatic conditions are therefore unfavourable for patients allergic to house-dust.


[Intra-atrial cardioversion in supraventricular tachycardial arrhythmia]. Cardioversion by rapid atrial stimulation has been carried out in 29 patients with supraventricular tachycarida and 12 patients with "coarse" atrial fibrillation. Atrial stimulation rates of 60-1200/min and electrical impulses of 6-25 mA were used. Intracardial conversion was successful in 86% of the cases presenting supraventricular tachycardia. Cardioversion was not achieved with atrial fibrillation but atrial flutter and atrial tachycardia were both found to be easily converted. Transformation of an arrhythmia into sinus rhythm or into stable atrial fibrillation with a slowed ventricular rate was the criterion for a successful conversion. Transient arrhythmias prior to an eventual stable rhythm was observed in 28% of the cases. Two mechanisms to explain the induced change in supraventricular tachycardias are discussed: (1) interruption of atrial or junctional foci (overdrive suppression) and (2) interruption of a re-entry circle by single premature beats. Cardioversion using atrial stimulation is indicated in atrial flutter, atrial tachycardias and junctional tachycardias. The method is of advantage in that it does not require anesthesia or interruption of digitalis therapy and its use involves no complications. Cardioversion using DC-shock is to be preferred in all cases of atrial fibrillation.


[Use of drugs in the hospital. Retrospective model study]. This study sets out to describe and evaluate antimicrobial therapy in the departments of surgery, medicine, gynecology and obstetrics of a 500-bed general hospital serving a mainly metropolitan population. About one third (605) of 2002 hospitalized patients received chemotherapy, 97 patients being treated for nosocomial infections. In 44% antimicrobials were given prophylactically, chiefly in the surgical department (in 60% of the drug courses) and the departments of gynecology (in 78%) and obstetrics (in 71%). Combinations (excluding sulphamethoxazole/ trimethoprim) were used on the medical wards in 5% and on the surgical wards in 15% of the drug courses. Gentamycin combined with beta-lactam antibiotics was most often used in medicine, while penicillin/streptomycin and ampicillin/cloxacillin in fixed ratios were the most frequent combinations in surgery. Finally, each therapy was evaluated by two experts as either rational, irrational or questionable. 61% of the 681 drug courses were considered rational, 16% questionable and 23% irrational. In the 155 irrational drug courses, one or more of the following criticisms were made: inappropriate chemoprophylaxis (101), wrong drug in chemoprophylaxis (66), inappropriate combination (30), wrong drug in symptomatic chemotherapy (28), no bacteriological diagnosis (26), sensitivity test not considered (17), use of antagonistic combinations (11) and wrong drug in therapeutic chemotherapy (5).


[Essential mixed cryoglobulinemia with kidney involvement]. Essential mixed cryoglobulin associated with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis has been observed in a 64-year-old patient. The cryoglobulin consisted of monoclonal IgM-kappa and polyclonal IgG and displayed rheumatoid-factor activity. The antinuclear antibody test was negative. In the immunofluorescent method renal biopsy showed positive staining for IgG; IgM and the early and late complement components. The rheumatoid factor activity of the renal IgM deposits was demonstrated by binding of fluorescent aggregated IgG. There is thus evidence that the vasculitis observed in essential mixed cryoglobulin is caused by IgM-IgG complexes. The differentiation of essential mixed cryoglobulin from lupus nephritis with cryoglobulins is discussed.


[18 cases of anguilluliasis diagnosed at Geneva]. Eighteen cases of strongyloidiasis have been diagnosed in Geneva, Switzerland, since the laboratory method of Baërmann was introduced.  Digestive disorders were reported by 15 patients, and pulmonary symptoms were present in 4.  Six also had various neurological symptoms.  Peripheric eosinophilia was above 5% in all cases and above 10% in 14.  A single course of treatment with thiabendazoled 17 patients, while the last was cured after a second course.  Three of our 18 patients were infected in Geneva and had never travelled abroad.


Proceedings:   Cephazolin in obstetrics.

Proceedings:   Cephazolin in obstetrics. The pharmacodynamics of a new cephalosporin--cephazolin--have been evaluated in clinical obstetrics with particular reference to antibiotic prophylaxis for the cardiac patient, and the prophylaxis and treatment of choriamnionitis and intrauterine pneumonia.  Cephazolin effectively crosses the placental barrier.  It slowly concentrates in the amniotic fluid when the fetus is alive.  This new drug  may be used for phophylactic cover in the above clinical situations.


Intracardiac operations with extracorporeal circulation under acupuncture anaesthesia. The method and clinical materials of 107 cases of direct vision intracardiac operation with extracorporeal circulation under acupuncture anaesthesia, together with a preliminary consideration of selection of patients, are reported. The most obvious benefit of acupuncture anaesthesia is the marked reduction or the absence of various post-operative respiratory symptoms and complications. Improvements on surgical technique for better result of acupuncture anaesthesia are discussed. It is stressed that further investigations for better analgesic effect are obligatory.


An improved solid-phase method for peptide synthesis--the syntheses of oxytocin and vasopressin. Peptide hormones are now widely used for both medicinal and veterinary purposes. It is, therefore, imminent to improve the process of peptide synthesis to meet the needs of production. This paper describes an improved method for the solid-phase synthesis of peptides. By reacting the potassium salt, instead of the triethyl ammonium salt, of the N-protected amino acid with the chloromethylated polystyrene-divinyl benzene (2%) support, esterification was found to attain higher levels, thus obviating or minimizing the formation of a quaternary anion exchanger which might cause side reactions during the subsequent steps of synthesis. The method has been applied to the syntheses of oxytocin and vasopressin and found to be quite satisfactory. A new method was introduced for the determination of free alpha-amino groups of the peptide polymer support through the formation of a Schiff's base with salicylaldehyde.


Leukocyte recruitment to airways by cigarette smoke and particle phase in contrast to cytotoxicity of vapor. After hamsters had breathed fresh cigarette smoke in a miniature chamber, airways of the lung showed recruitment of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Exposure to particles alone by removal of the vapor phase with charcoal did not change the leukocyte response. However, exposure to cigarette smoke vapor after removal of particles with Cambridge filters did not recruit leukocytes but produced nuclear and cytoplasmic vacuoles, double nuclei, and exfoliation of cells.


Distribution of concanavalin A receptor sites on specific populations of embryonic cells. The early 32- to 64-cell stage of the sea urchin embryo consists of three cell types, easily distinguishable by size: micromeres, mesomeres, and macromeres. Only the micromeres are migratory. Treatment of dissociated sea urchin embryo cells with fluorescein-labeled concanavalin A (Con A) revealed a Con A-induced highly clustered or capped distribution of receptor sites on the micromeres. Concanavalin A did not induce significant clustering or capping of receptor sites on the mesomeres or macromeres. The results indicate that Con A receptor sites are more mobile on specific population of malignant-like migratory embryonic cells.


Juvenile hormone analogs: detrimental effects on the development of an endoparasitoid. A high incidence of mortality of the endoparasitoid Aphidius nigripes was observed when its host. Macrosiphum euphorbiae, was treated with juvenile hormone analogs. Larval and pupal stages of the parasitoid were susceptible. Off-target effects on natural enemies may seriously limit the use of juvenile hormone analogs, especially in integrated control programs.


Swarming behavior: evidence for communication in social wasps. Behavior of wasps at sites around swarms and along emigration routes suggests the use of odor marks. Wasps perform breaking runs through swarms, resulting in dispersal of clustered wasps. Orientation in flight of swarm mates to specific trail sites facilitates swarm emigration to the new nest.


Persistence of foreign innervation on reinnervated goldfish extraocular muscles. Behavioral observations have suggested that the function of foreign synapses on goldfish extraocular muscles can be repressed after reinnervation by the original nerve without any ultrastructural alterations. The present experiments demonstrate that even after behavioral repression foreign synapses are physiologically functionl and that the original and foreign nerves can simultaneously innervate goldfish extraocular muscles.


Anomalous myopias and the intermediate dark focus of accommodation. The dark focus of accommodation for an individual observer correlates highly with the magnitude of night, empty field, and instrument myopia. These anomalous myopias are interpreted as resulting from the passive return of accommodation to an individually determined intermediate dark focus when the stimulus for accommodation is degraded or absent, or when the need for accommodation is eliminated.


Prolongation of gestation by growth hormone: a confounding factor in the assessment of its prenatal action. The administration of urified growth hormone to normally nourished pregnant rats prolonged gestation leading to postmaturity of the offspring. The effect explains, in part, the apparent influence of growth hormone on prenatal and early postnatal development and supports the notion that the prenatal action of exogeneous growth hormone is restricted to a therapeutic one under conditions of malnutrition.


Bottle-nosed dolphin: double-slit pupil yields equivalent aerial and underwater diurnal acuity. In bright daylight, and at best viewing distances, the bottlenosed dolphin resolves visual gratings approximately equally well in air and in water. Aerial resolution improves with increased viewing distance, while underwater resolution improves with decreased viewing distance. The double-slit pipil overcomes the gross myopia in air measured by ophthalmoscope and produces the indicated effects of viewing distance.


Purposive behavior as a basis for objective communication between chimpanzees. The rate at which a chimpanzee approaches a hidden, distant goal varies according to social conditions and according to whether the goal is a novel object or food. This behavior furnishes a social group with sufficient information for simultaneous and successive disrciminations between leaders and between goals.


Drosophila hybrids in nature: proof of gene exchange between sympatric species. Genetic studies of two closely related endemic Hawaiian species show that in one area of sympatry about 2 percent of the naturally occurring individuals are hybrids. More than 20 times this many would be expected if the population consisted of a single panmictic unit. Despite hybridization, natural selection appears to maintain the essential integrity of each separate gene pool.


Occurrence of S-methyl thioesters in urines of humans after they have eaten asparagus. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to determine the odor-causing agent (or agents) present in the urines of humans after they have eaten asparagus. S-Methyl thioacrylate and S-methyl 3-(methylthio)thiopropionate were identified from methylene chloride extracts of such urines and appear to be the odor-causing compounds. Methanethiol, the previously reported odor-causing agent, was not detected in these methylene chloride extracts.


Immunological tolerance: transmission from mother to offspring. Mice born and raised by mothers made specifically unresponsive to heterologous erythrocytes by prior treatment with soluble extracts of these cells become themselves tolerant. Tolerance is achieved through nursing since normal neonates fostered by tolerant animals become tolerant, while animals born to tolerant mothers but nursed by normal mice are fully responsive.


Sexual cyclicity in captive lowland gorillas. Oppositely sexed pairs of gorillas exhibit some behavior indicative of higher cognitive functioning, such as individual partner preferences and varied copulatory positions, but also mate in a cyclic manner closely related to the degree of female genital swelling. The latter finding is contrary to predictions based on their advanced position in phylogeny.


The possible role of histones in the mechanism of chromosomal G banding. Cytochemical data are presented to show that the histone fractions f1 and f2a are involved in the induction of chromosomal G bands, whereas the f2b and f3 fractions are not involved. Removal of the f1 and f2a fractions probably occurs during fixation and is necessary for the induction of G bands.


Goldfish abducens motoneurons: physiological and anatomical specialization. During natural movements, the motoneurons innervating a single muscle have different patterns of activity that are correlated with differences in synaptic input. The caudal abducens motoneurons fire phasically in synchronous bursts before rapid posterior eye movements; the rostral abducens motoneurons fire only tonically when the eye is fixed or moving slowly. This physiological difference is not related to motoneuron size. In this respect the abducens motoneurons violate the "size principle" that has been advanced for spinal motoneurons. The difference is probably related to the present finding that the caudal but not the rostral cells receive numerous electrical synapses that are known to have a role in synchronizing phasic activity.


Nascent stage of cellulose biosynthesis. Freeze-etching of never-dried pellicles or of incubated suspensions of both Acetobacter xylinum and Acetobacter acetigenum show a nascent form of the cellulose microfibril which has a core surrounded by an amorphous sheath. Drying of the pellicle or suspension reduces the diameter of the sheath and changes the form of the microfibril to the one usually seen. This nascent form of the cellulose microfibril is consistent with previous postulations of an intermediate polymer or polymers in the biosynthesis of cellulose.


Crustacean intestinal detergent promotes sterol solubilization. Although crustacean tissue cholesterol content is high, Crustacea, like other arthropods; are incapable of cholesterol synthesis, and presumably are dependent for maintaining tissue cholesterol stores on the intestinal absorption of ingested sterol. A detergent, N-(N-dodecanoylsarcosyl)taurine, representative of a set of detergents synthesized by the crustacean hepatopancreas and secreted into the intestine, is capable of efficient cholesterol solubilization, and thus of promoting sterol absorption.


Arteriovenous anastomoses in the skin of the Weddell Seal, Leptonychotes weddelli. Arteriovenous anastomoses of epithelioid type were demonstrated in Weddell seal skin. The majority occurred just beneath the epidermis and among the hair follicles. There was no significant variation in density of these anastomoses between body and flipper skin. These observations suggest that arteriovenous anastomoses are important in thermoregulation in the Weddell seal, particularly as heat dissipating structures when the animal is out of the water, and that the entire body surface is involved rather than specific regions such as the flippers.


Color vision and brightness discrimination in two-month-old human infants. A red or white bar, embedded in a white screen, was systematically varied in intensity. Infants consistently located and stared at the white bar unless it closely matched the screen in intensity. They also stared at all intensities of the red bar, presumptively including the red-white brightness match, and hence must have some form of color vision.


Strange females increase plasma testosterone levels in male mice. Male house mice paired with a normal female for 1 week do not have higher plasma testosterone levels than do males that remain in all-male groups, but paired males have markedly elevated testosterone levels 30 to 60 minutes after the resident female is replaced by another female. Elevation of testosterone levels in these males is similar to that in isolated males paired with a female, does not depend on copulation with the strange female, occurs under housing conditions that permit continuous exposure to the odors of other females and males, and does not occur when the resident female is replaced by another male for 30 to 60 minutes. The elevation thus appears to be a specific endocrine response to an encounter with a strange female. These results, along with previous findings suggesting that strange males affect endocrine function in females, indicate that bisexual encounters are likely to produce endocrine changes in members of both sexes.


Dystrophic spinal cord transplants induce abnormal thymidine kinase activity in normal muscles. The role of the neural tube in the pathogenesis of muscular dystrophy was tested directly. Neural tubes from chicken embryos with hereditary muscular dystrophy and from genetically normal embryos were transplanted into normal recipient embryos. Dystrophic neural tissue induced in muscles of normal hosts high thymidine kinase activity characteristic of dystrophic muscle; normal neural tubes did not. We propose an early inductive effect of the neural tube on the presumptive myoblasts that sets their subsequent course of development, either normal or dystrophic.


Conditioning and reversal of short-latency multiple-unit responses in the rabbit medial geniculate nucleus. Rabbits were conditioned to avoid shock signaled by a tone. A second tone was randomly interspersed but did not signal shock. Neuronal activity 5 to 40 milliseconds after tone onset was greater to the shock-signaling tone than to the other tone. This difference reversed when the signal value of the tones was reversed.


Gunshot and fragment wounds of the metacarpus. Based on a study of 120 gunshot and fragment wounds of the metacarpus, we conclude that these wounds should be debrided and subjected to delayed closure technics. Even relatively low-velocity missiles may cause serious damage. Metacarpal stabilization with Kirschner wires may be done with impunity to obtain proper alignment, rotation, apposition, and length, in that order of priority. Immediate muscular activity is beneficial. Reconstructive procedures must be individualized to each case and should be considered technically difficult to perform.


Survival in a coronary care unit.

Survival in a coronary care unit. The mortality among 253 patients with definite, acute myocardial infarction admitted to the coronary care unit (CCU) of the New Orleans VA Hospital during a two-year period is reported. Thirty-one (12.3%) of these patients died in the CCU. Five others died on the medical wards after release from the CCU. A total of 217 patients was discharged in good condition from the hospital after a minimal stay of three to four weeks, resulting in a survival rate of 85.8%.


Primary adenocarcinoma of the appendix.

Primary adenocarcinoma of the appendix. A case of primary adenocarcinoma of the appendix in which the patient had the usual symptoms of acute appendicitis is presented. A review of the literature showed the potential for early extension and nodal metastasis in this lesion and led to the recommendation of right hemicolectomy as the treatment of choice. The operation should be done either primarily or secondarily after an appendectomy and should lead to a five-year survival of approximately 45%. Every effort should be made to make the diagnosis and provide definitive treatment at the primary operation by examining the appendix grossly and obtaining frozen section microscopic study of any suspicious tumor or ulceration.


An evaluation of the performance of minimal resistance non-rebreathing systems. Minimal resistance to spontaneous respiration has been proposed as a safe method for reducing operative bleeding. The Magill, Bullough, and Gilston T-piece non-rebreathing systems have been tested for resistance in steady-state conditions of pressure gradient and gas flow. The slope of the lines on the graph of the pressure gradient within an endotracheal tube against the squared value of the simulated expiratory flow rate illustrated the low resistance characteristics of the Gilston T-piece compared with the Magill and Bullough systems. In a within-patient trial, the resistance characteristics of the Gilston T-piece and Magill systems were confirmed by measuring the patterns of airway flow and endotracheal pressure changes with rapidly responding transducers. In conclusion, the Gilston T-piece system offers the least resistance to respiration of those tested, and provides the greatest opportunity for assessment of reduced operative bleeding in a clinical trial.


Treatment methods in tibial condylar fractures. A series of 915 tibial condylar fractures has been analyzed for the type of treatment used and some of the pitfalls encountered with emphasis on preservation of fracture position. The most commonly used treatment methods are discussed in depth, emphasizing the advantages and disadvantages of each and their indications in the various types of tibial condylar fractures. It is concluded that the treatment must be carefully fitted to the type of fracture and to the patient in order to achieve a strong movable knee with good alignment and stability.


Bacteroidosis.

Bacteroidosis. Bacteroides infection frequently complicates surgery, instrumentation, or trauma to the alimentary, upper respiratory, and female genitourinary tracts. Bacteroides sp, alone or with other organisms, also may cause infections in the ear, nose, and throat, and other tissues where defeneses are lowered. Foul-smelling pus, sinus drainage, material from an abscess or infected traumatic wound, or a blood culture made because of a suspected anaerobic complication should be subjected to anaerobic study in the laboratory. Treatment of clinical bacteroidosis consists of specific antibiotics, surgery, oxygen under pressure, and appropriate local dressings. Treatment is often more effective if at least two antibiotics are given concurrently, and antibiotic sensitivity tests are recommended to select the best combination.


Current management of Hodgkin's disease. The accepted management of Hodgkin's disease has changed markedly in the past two decades. It should be considered a tumor of unifocal origin and potentially one of the most curable cancers, given early diagnosis, careful evaluation, meticulously accurate staging and aggressive, radical treatment. This requires a team effort, is tedious and expensive, and morbidity and mortality remain significant, but the high yield of long remissions and apparent cures justifies this approach to the problem.


Early decompression fasciotomy in the treatment of high-voltage electrical burns of the extremities. Based on a knowledge of electropathophysiology, a recommended treatment has been proposed for the management of extensive high-voltage electrical burns. Early, aggressive, surgical intervention consisting of adequate decompression fasciotomy and wound debridement has been emphasized as the first line of treatment. Frequent redebridements under general anesthesia are important to the preservation of viable tissue. Early coverage procedures or attempts at primary closure following decompression are contraindicated in high-voltage injuries. This method of treatment in eight cases of high-voltage, electrical injury has preserved viable tissue, decreased the incidence of fatal sepsis and renal shutdown, decreased patient morbidity, and generally facilitated patient rehabilitation.


Keratoacanthoma: facial lesion requiring radical excision. Keratoacanthoma is a common skin lesion of the head and neck region, particularly of the central face. Although it is a benign tumor, it may mimic a well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma in its clinical and particularly its histologic appearance. Two cases of squamous cell carcinoma are presented in which the histologic diagnosis of keratoacanthoma was made. Serious errors in treatment may arise from reliance on the histologic characteristics alone. Conservative treatment of keratoacanthomas should be avoided. Prompt and total excision is the treatment of choice.


Anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology laboratory programs in the education of physicians. The amount of laboratory time devoted to anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology has decreased substantially while lecture time has remained essentially unchanged. Most laboratories consist of student conduction of assigned exercises with a sprinkling of demonstrations, conferences, and seminars. Various objectives for laboratory programs are discussed. A great percentage of the student's final anatomy grade (approximately 40%) still depends on his laboratory performance, while in biochemistry and physiology, lab work contributes only 12% and 10%, respectively, toward his final grade. There is great reluctance to abandon the laboratory program, however, because of the significant role it is thought to play in medical education.


Serum chemistry templates of disease in liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. On routine hospital admission, 23,714 patients received a 28-test serum metabolic profile. The 33 most common diseases (4,132 patients) of liver, pancreas, and gallbladder (LPG) had unique chemical templates averaging 15 significant serum deviations. Each LPG disease differed from all others by elevations of both leucine-aminopeptidase (LAP) and alkaline phosphatase (AP) levels. LAP level was low or normal and serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and AP levels were elevated in 43 non-LPG diseases. Patients with acute and chronic pancreatitis had elevated amylase levels. The four nonmalignant diseases of the gallbladder were associated with normal levels of amylase and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH); except for silent cholelithiasis, each showed elevated total bilirubin (BIL) levels. Patients with solitary or scattered lesions of the liver had normal bilirubin levels (2,115 patients), and those with diffuse interstitial or parencymal disease had elevated BIL levels. Cancer patients had elevated LDH and alpha1 globulin (A1G) levels, but low albumin levels. The importance of comprehensive liver profiles in the treatment of psychoses is emphasized by significant liver damage in a number of these patients. A1G was normal and LDH was elevated in patients having mononucleosis, hepatitis, lupus erythematosus, alcoholism, and alcoholic cirrhosis.


The imported fire ant: dimensions of the urban problem. Although the imported fire ant is a known rural problem, the problem it may pose to urban dwellers has not been documented. A telephone survey of 240 households selected by a probability sample of an upper middle class suburb of New Orleans was carried out to ascertain the experiences of residents with fire ants from June to August 1973. Overall, ant stings were reported for 29% of the study population, with sting rates of 55% among children under 10 years old. Among those stung, at least minimal allergic reactions were reported for 17%, and 4.4% required medical consultation. Of households with outdoor premises, 55% reported fire ant infestation, 86% of these used pesticides for fire ant control, and few felt that community assistance was needed for private property. Half of the respondents, however, favored a community control program for public grounds. These data may provide a basis for decision as to the need for community efforts in fire ant control.


Hallermann-Streiff syndrome and progeria. Reported is an atypical, severe case of Hallermann-Streiff syndrome combined with progeria, bilateral microphthalmus, cataracts, and normal chromosome count. A plea is made for study into the teratology of abnormal chemical, metabolic, and other forces that attack the early stages of the development of the human fetus and produce multiple anomalies.


A free clinic for youth in an academic department of pediatrics. The Gainesville Youth Clinic was organized to meet a community need for medical care of nonuniversity youth and to provide experience in adolescent medicine to pediatric house officers. Demographic and clinical data were gathered in three studies spanning the first 15 months of operation. The clinic sees 2,200 patients (3,000 visits) annually; two thirds are girls, 98% are white, and 90% are 15 to 25 years old. The population was not predominantly transient; parental occupations were mostly professional or skilled. Educational level was consistent with age; one third of the patients are students at present. Genitourinary problems, principally venereal infection, account for nearly one third of all visits and suspected pregnancy or birth control another one fourth. The clinic experience has emphasized the youth cultural influences on health, increased the participant's insight into the emotional turmoil of adolescence, and has suggested a style and design for providing primary care to this population consistent with the academic objectives of a pediatric department.


Primary carcinoma of the fallopian tube. Carcinoma of the fallopian tube is the least common of the gynecologic malignancies. Because of its rarity and the absence of typical symptoms, preoperative diagnosis is seldom made. Patient as well as physician delay in diagnosis is often considerable. There are no reliable laboratory aids available to enhance the discovery of this tumor. However, routine periodic pelvic examinations with laparoscopic examination of any significant adnexal enlargement in postmenopausal women should decrease the discovery time. Certainly, unexplained vaginal discharge or bleeding particularly when associated with a pelvic mass, should increase one's suspicion. Conventional surgical treatment can be curative if the tumor has not exceeded the confines of the tube and has not involved the serosa. Regardless, the prognosis for patients with primary carcinoma of the fallopian tube is grim.


Panendoscopic removal of sutured retained Penrose drain. Presented is a case in which panendoscopic removal of a sutured retained Penrose drain averted possible major reoperation. The drain had been sutured inadvertently during a pyelolithotomy and had fragmented during a subsequent unsuccessful attempt to advance the drain.


White sponge nevus of the tongue.

White sponge nevus of the tongue. To my knowledge, this is the fifth case of white sponge nevus of the tongue to be reported. This lesion is probably much more common than has been reported in the past. The disorder is benign and almost always asymptomatic. The recognition of this disorder is important in that it must be differentiated from other congenital or familial disorders of more widespread clinical significance. It is important for any physician, and especially for dermatologists, to do a thorough examination of the oral mucous membranes as a part of any physical examination.


Extranodal lymphoma with an unusual constellation of features. Hypercalcemia, lytic bone lesions, and hematogenous dissemination formed an unusual constellation of presenting features in a patient with extranodal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The patient's clinical course was short, with death resulting nine months after diagnosis, and this combination of features may indicate a poor prognosis.


Hereditary angioedema with 14-year remission. The concept that hereditary angioedema assumes a benign form in some families is supported by documented disease in a 37-year-old man who had had recurrent attacks for one year but has been without symptoms for 14 years. Although numerous members of the patient's family have been affected during the past five generations, known causes of death have not been directly related to angioedema.


Ventilatory response to carbon dioxide in Nigerian asthmatics before and after aerosol salbutamol inhalation. Patterns of response to carbon dioxide (CO2) inhalation in 12 Nigerian asthmatic patients before and after salbutamol aerosol inhalation are described. Ventilatory response to CO2 inhalation follows three patterns, viz,(1) an increase; (2) a decrease; (3) no change in response. While most of our subjects showed substantial improvement in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) following bronchodialator therapy, there was no corresponding change in ventilatory response to CO2. On the whole. the mean values of the slope of response to CO2 inhalation of the asthmatics before and after bronchodilator were not significantly different from values obtained in normal patients in our laboratory.


Ventilatory response of healthy Nigerians and Europeans to carbon dioxide. Ventilatory response to carbon dioxide was measured by the rebreathing technique in 32 Nigerians and 20 Europeans resident in Lagos. Although the Europeans had larger physical characteristics and lung volumes than Nigerians, the responses to carbon dioxide were similar. The range of ventilatory response was 0,55 to 4,2 and 0,7 to 3,7 1/min/mm Hg for Nigerians and Europeans respectively. These results show that Nigerians are as sensitive to carbon dioxide as their European counterparts.


Serum immunoglobulin levels in hepatitis-B antigen-positive and hepatitis-B antigen-negative acute hepatitis. IgG, IgA and IgM levels were measured in the serum of 73 patients with hepatitis-B antigen-positive (virus-B) acute hepatitis and 48 patients with hepatitis-B antigen-negative (virus-A) hepatitis. The mean serum IgM level on admission was significantly higher in virus-A than in virus-B hepatitis (p less than 0,01), and remained so for 2-3 weeks. However, the overlap between the individual figures in the two forms of the disease was so great as to make the estimation of little diagnostic value. The mean serum IgG and IgA levels at the time of admission were not significantly different in the patients with and without hepatitis-B anti-genaemia.


Vitamin B12 and its binding proteins in the serum of some wild game species. The concentration of vitamin B12 and its binding proteins was measured in the impala, nyala, wildebeest, zebra, bushpig, warthog, and rhino, all existing in their natural state. Marked differences were found between some species. The variations observed are probably true species differences, unrelated to environmental factors.


Comparison of xeromammography and film mammography in the diagnosis of breast lesions. A comparative study of xeromammography and film mammography was terminated after 104 patients had undergone treatment, as it was readily appreciated that the xerograms provided increased information and detail. Apart from skin thickening and skin retraction, image quality for all other anatomical structures in the breast is greatly superior on xerograms and microcalcification is particularly well shown. Xerograms are more easily interpreted provided the radiologist has been given the necessary training, and the over-all accuracy is greater than that achieved by film mammography.


Cutaneous reactions to topical application of hydroquinone. Results of a 6-year investigation. The investigation was designed to assess the safety of hydroquinone in cosmetic skin-lightening products, and to determine the optimal concentration for the purpose. The 840 volunteers who took part in the 6-year trial were drawn from various race groups with skins varying from very fair to very dark. They were subjected to open tests, "normal usage" tests, and standard 48-hour closed-patch tests. In all, over 7,000 test areas were examined. The results show that concentrations of hydroquinone of 3% and less produced negligible adverse effects, irrespective of the base or the colour of the user's skin. It is stressed that any confusion of hydroquinone with the hazardous monobenzyl ether of of hydroquinone (monobenzone, MBH) should be avoided.


"Ground-glass" hepatocytes.

"Ground-glass" hepatocytes. "Ground-glass" hepatocytes are liver cells which have eosinophilic granular, glassy cytoplasm on light microscopy. This appearance corresponds to a proliferated smooth endoplasmic reticulum ultrastructure. These changes may be drug-induced or associated with hepatitis B antigenaemia, particularly in carriers. In the latter case, hepatitis B antigen may be demonstrated in the liver cell cytoplasm, with a modified orcein stain, by immunofluorescence, electron microscopy and immuno-electron microscopy. Two patients are described in whom "ground-glass" hepatocytes were noted on liver biopsy. One patient had been treated with high doses of phenobarbitone, the other is a hepatitis B antigen carrier as was demonstrated by the modified orcein stain.


[Rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder].

[Rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder]. Two cases of rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder are reported. These tumours mainly occur in male children. They may arise in any part of the bladder and usually cause dysuria, lower urinary tract obstruction and a palpable suprapubic mass. The clinical, radiological and cystoscopic findings are typical. The histology may vary from a myxomatous appearance to a clear rhabdomyosarcomatous lesion. Early radical surgery, combined with radiotherapy and cystostatic agents is the treatment of choice.


Aneurysmal bone cyst of the spine. Two cases. Two cases of aneurysmal bone cyst of the spine are described. The age incidence and distribution of such lesions are analysed, the typical radiographic and histological appearances are described, and the difficulty in diagnosis is discussed.


Acute appendicits in pregnancy.

Acute appendicits in pregnancy. Acute appendicitis in pregnancy and its treatment are reviewed. Six cases are described. Early surgery is recommended, and a conservative watchfulness for more than 4 to 6 hours is condemned.


Thrombus formation after umbilical arterial catheterisation. An angiographic study. Forty-seven newborn infants who had umbilical arterial catheterisation were studied prospectively to determine the incidence of arterial thrombus formation. Pull-out angiography was performed on 30 patients at the time of removal of the catheter. Arterial thrombus formation was demonstrated in 9 of the 30, i.e. 30%. No clinical signs referable to thrombus formation were present. There was no statistically significant difference in birthweight or duration of catheterisation between infants who showed thrombus formation and those who did not. At sutopsy, arterial thrombus was found in 5 infants out of 8. The major aortic tributaries were localised by angiography, and the need for the correct placement of the catheter is emphasised.


Phaeochromocytoma in childhood. A case report. The clinical features of a 9-year-old boy with an extra-adrenal phaeochromocytoma, complicated by malignant hypertension, are described. The value of urinary and blood catecholamine assays and specialised radiological investigations in the accurate localisation of the tumour, is emphasised. Successful removal of the tumour was facilitated by pre-operative control of the hypertension with a combination of alpha and beta-adrenergic blockade (phenoxybenzamine and practolol). Intra-operative control of fluctuations in blood pressure was simplified by the use of Ethrane (enflurane compound 347) as one of the anaesthetic agents. As a result, sodium nitroprusside was infrequently used.


The provision of measles vaccine for an urban population. The implications of the unavailability of free measles vaccine for an urban community are examined. Measles mortality and morbidity statistics for Cape Town are reviewed, and the Coloureds and Blacks are shown to be the population groups at highest risk. A case is made for vaccination of those members of the population between 9 months and 5 years of age who are at risk, and for including measles vaccination in the third visit of a modified immunisation schedule. A simple cost benefit analysis strongly favours vaccination.


Vibrio parahaemolyticus -- a marine pathogen detected in South African coastal waters. Vibrio parahaemolyticus has been detected in the Natal and Eastern Cape costal water of South Africa. As a proven cause of gastro-enteritis or a potential pathogen to humans, it is an organism of importance to public health. Outlines of the history, pathogenicity and identification are given, as well as the results of the local investigation of this organism.


Beta2-selectivity of fenoterol. Comparison of intravenous and aerosol administration. Aersol administration of fenoterol was compared with intravenous infusion in 30 patients who were undergoing induction of labour. In 11 cases, an increased uterine beta2-selectivity was demonstrated. This, apart from the ease of administration, makes aerosol the mode of administration of choice in some cases. Possible reasons for this are discussed.


Klinefelter's syndrome in South African Indians and blacks. Poly-X syndromes are very uncommon in Indian and Black South Africans. Two affected males of each race group are described; the Indians are probably the first to be reported in this country, and there are now 8 case histories of Klinefelter's syndrome in Blacks. The possible reasons for the rarity of the poly-X syndromes in South Africa are discussed and it is suggested that these syndromes are less common here than in other countries.


Melanosis after prolonged chlorpromazine therapy. The effect of prolonged treatment with chlorpromazine in high dosage, on skin melanin, was measured by reflectance spectrophotometry. Whites and Blacks of both sexes were tested in this study which compared 201 chlorpromazine-treated, chronic psychiatric patients (predominantly schizophrenics) and 161 controls. The treated patients generally had significantly higher concentrations of melanin in the skin than the controls. These differences were particularly marked in the female groups and in the exposed areas of the White groups. The aetiology of the melanosis is discussed.


An unusual hormonal cause of hypertension and hypokalaemia. A patient with primary hyperparathyroidism who presented with hypokalaemia and hypertension is described. Renal potassium wasting was documented and cured by removal of a parathyroid adenoma. Possible mechanisms for this unusual manifestation of hyperparathyroidism are mentioned. Other features of the case were severe anaemia, nephrocalcinosis, pseudogout and postoperative acidosis.


Aneurysm of a peripheral pulmonary artery. Case report and brief review of the literature. A patient is presented in whom a solitary aneurysm of a peripheral pulmonary artery was treated by left lower lobectomy. This is the eighth reported successful resection of such an aneurysm. A brief review of the literature is also presented and the importance of pulmonary arteriography in the diagnosis of this condition is mentioned.


Infants with earache.

Infants with earache. Of 66 babies under the age of 3 months, who were examined during a 6-month period for excessive or unusual crying, and who showed no signs of fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, blocked nose, skin eruptions, and difficulties with breast- or bottle-feeding, 9 had pus or mucus in the middle ear. All who care for young children should be skilled in examining them for otitis media.


Microsporum canis infection in calves.

Microsporum canis infection in calves. Microsporum canis infection, seldom reported in calves, is described. The organism was isolated from skin scrapings collected from ringworm lesions mainly on the heads of 2 naturally infected calves. The organism was studied in vitro, and experimentally on guinea-pigs.


Morphology of Piedra hortal.

Morphology of Piedra hortal. Piedra hortai, an ascomycete causing black piedra, was studied with light and electron microscopy. The nodule on the hair contains septate hyphae, asci and free ascospores, all of which were smaller than those previously reported. A mode of spread of infection is suggested.


Seven cases of human nocardiosis caused by Nocardia farcinica. Twelve nocardia strains isolated from Danish human patients have been examined and compared with reference strains of Nocardia asteroides and N. farcinica using Tsukamura's (1969) simple method of identification. Seven of these strains, recovered from human lesions compatible with nocardioisis, were identified as N. farcinica. These investigations suggest that N. farcinica could be a more common cause of human nocardiosis in Denmark than N. asteroides and other nocardias. N. farcinica might also be the cause of human nocardiosis in other countries.


Mycetoma of the knee due to Nocardia caviae. Mycetoma of the knee, caused by Nocardia caviae and idangosed by culture and histopathology, occurred in a 20 year old farmer from a rural area of Varanasi District in Uttar Pradesh, India. The isolate was pathogenic to mice and it showed close agreement with the standard description of the species. It is suggested that infection due to this species has a higher prevalence than is currently recognized.


Aspects of the dimorphism of Histoplasma farciminosum: a light and electron microscopic study. Within 48h following the induction of mycelial to yeast-like phase conversion of Histoplasma farcininosum, randomly occurring hyphal cells were observed to contain multiple nuclei and markedly increased numbers of mitochondria. Yeast-like cells arose as buds from swollen tips of terminal hyphae, as sessile buds along the hyphae, and as buds from chlamydospores. Yeast-like cells were characterized by the presence of numerous buds over the surface of the mother cell. Bud scars were evident in the cell wall of the mother cell following abscission of the bud cell. Little similarity was noted between the fine structure of yeast-like H. farciminosum and that reported for H. capsulatum. The yeast-like cells of H. frciminosum underwent rapid transformation to the mycelial phase at 25 degrees C. The hyphal cell wall originated from the inner layer of cell wall of the yeast-like form. The cytoplasm of the hyphal cell usually contained a single nucleus, scattered mitochondria and occasional lipid storage bodies. Occasionally, Woronin bodies were observed at the septal pore.


Distribution of Blastomyces dermatitidis in dogs with skin test and serologic results following airborne infection. Reported is a short term (16 week) experiment to determine the distribution of B. dermatitidis in dogs when infected by the natural inhalation route by receiving about 250,000 viable particles during a 24h. exposure. Four dogs were positive to blastomycin and 1 to histoplasmin prior to exposure. Post exposure, all dogs developed positive skin tests to blastomycin by the 4th week with considerable cross reaction to histoplasmin. Serologic tests showed more poritive CF tests to Histoplasma than to Blastomyces so that the test appears of no practical value. Although 22 tissues were cultured on each dog, only 1 or 7 dogs was positive for B. dermatitidis by 2 weeks. At 4 weeks, 57% of the dogs were positive by culture and at 12, 15, and 16 weeks, all were positive. One dog developed eye lesions and became emaciated.


Metastatic subcutaneous zygomycosis following intravenous and intracerebral inoculation of Absidia corymbifera spores. A subcutaneous granuloma developed in a C3H mouse ca. 5 months after sequential intravenous and intracerebral inoculation of Absidia corymbifera spores. A. corymbifera was demonstrated microscopically and culturally in the lesion. Infection is believed to have been secondary to fungal infection of the kidney. The histopathological features of the lesion are described.


[Ecology of Sporothrix schenckii and of Ceratocystis stenoceras in Corsica and Alsace, French provinces free of sporotrichosis]. The study was conducted in 2 French Provinces free of sporotrichosis. Of 40 samples (soil, plant fragments, . . .) taken from Corsica, 59 isolations were obtained. All of these contained S. schenckii type of growth. Of 30 retained for further study, 14 were later identified as Ceratocystis stenoceras. All 14 needed pyrimidine as a growth factor. They developed well at 37 degrees and gave a yeast-like growth in shaken medium at 35 degrees and 25 degrees. One of the strains was pathogenic to mice. From 422 small mammals trapped in Alsace 37 isolations were made which morphologically were identified as S. schenckii. From these 31 were identified as C. stenoceras. Six isolations were considered as S. schenckii. The presence of nature of C. stenoceras and S. scheckii is discussed. Both fungi were isolated from various materials collected in tropical areas where sporotrichosis is endemic but also in such temperate areas as Corsica and Alsace where the mycosis is non-existent.


[Fatty acid composition of polar and neutral lipids of Sporothrix schenckii and Ceratocystis stenoceras]. The fatty acids contained in the neutral and polar lipids from Sprorthrix schenckii and Ceratocystis stenoceras and 3 mutants of the latter fungus were found to be identical. The major fatty acids were palmitic, oleic and linoleic. The fungi had similar quantitative composition especially the mutant strains and S. schenckii. This observation provides more data regarding the possible relationship between Ceratocystis and sporothrix.


A technique for partial mastectomy.

A technique for partial mastectomy. Operations less than mastectomy for carcinoma of the breast are not new. Adair in this country, Porritt in England, and Muskatallio in Scandinavia reported early results of operations less than mastectomy, and more recently, Wise et al. in England, and Crile et al. in this country have published their results. The term partial mastectomy has often been labeled "lumpectomy", a deplorable term, and much confusion exists concerning the proper technique of partial mastectomy and its application. The purpose of this article is to discuss the selection of patients for partial mastectomy and to review the fundamental techniques of the procedure.


Carotid endarterectomy.

Carotid endarterectomy. During the last 20 years carotid endarterectomy has become an important method of treatment for selected patients with arteriosclerotic cerebrovascular disease. Improvement in selection of patients for operation, in anesthetic management, and in surgical techniques has resulted in a decline in complications associated with the operation. The steps of the operation are described in detail. The causes, prevention, and treatment of the surgical complications are discussed.