Inhaled feed particles in experimental pigs with and without vitamin A deficiency. An attempt was made to experimentally reproduce an unusual respiratory disease of pigs fed a dusty mixture of finely ground peas, wheat, and barley. Groups of vitamin-A-deficient piglets from this herd were either given dry feed and daily exposure to dust from the feed or were given wet feed. Vitamin-A-fortified pigs of another stock were also given the dry feed and dust exposure. The upper and lower respiratory tracts, renal pelves, and interlobular ducts of salivary glands were studied histologically. The distinguishing features of lungs were starch particles from feed (up to 31.2 mum in diameter) in all lungs (but more in lungs of pigs given dry feed), free alveolar macrophages, giant cell formations, and mild degenerative processes of respiratory epithelium. The epithelium of most renal pelves was marked by mucinous degeneration.


Giant cell tumor of soft parts. A report of an equine and a feline case. Masses removed from the superficial fascia of the jugular groove of a 12-year-old Arabian mare and from the femoral canal of a 7 1/2-year-old female cat appeared to be counterparts of the human malignant giant cell tumor of soft parts, even recapitulating the clinical behavior of the respective subgroups. Histologically, both neoplasms contained the characteristic features of the malignant giant cell tumor of soft parts: large multinucleate giant cells, pleomorphic mononuclear giant cells, histiocytes, fibroblasts and fibrocytes that were sometimes sarcomatous, and foci of hemorrhage and necrosis. Ultrastructural characteristics of the giant cells suggest mesenchymal origin with osteoblastic or chondroblastic differentiation.


Age-dependent resistance to transmissible gastroenteritis of swine. III. Effects of epithelial cell kinetics on coronavirus production and on atrophy of intestinal villi. Coronavirus titers in small intestine, degree of villous atrophy and apparent rates of regeneration of intestinal villi were compared in newborn, 3-week-old and adult pigs for 1 week after they were exposed to the transmissible gastroenteritis virus of swine. The response within the newborn group was homogeneous, resulting in high virus titers, maximal villous atrophy and comparatively slow regeneration. In general, virus titers were lower, villous atrophy was less severe and regeneration more rapid in both older groups than in the newborn pigs. However, the response varied greatly in the older groups. The 3-week-old group was divided into two populations. The major population had low virus titers and developed partial villous atrophy, whereas the minor population had marked villous atrophy and virus titers comparable to those of the newborn pigs. These observations support the hyposthesis that the accelerated replacement of villous epithelium in the small intestine of pigs during the first 3 weeks contributes to the innate age-dependent resistance to transmissible gastroenteritis. The accelerated replacement of villous epithelial cells in older pigs contributes to resistance in two ways. The increased proliferative capacity of crypt epithelium results in a more rapid regeneration of atrophic villi; and the comparatively young villous absorptive cells resulting from accelerated replacement produce less virus per cell than the older ones of the newborn pig.


The ultrastructure of macrophages in granulomatous colitis of Boxer dogs. Thirteen cases of granulomatous colitis of Boxer dogs were studied by electron microscopy to define the contents of macrophages and to seek infectious agents. Macrophages were of three types. The most numerous were distended with residual bodies composed of membranes and parallel pairs of membranes, many arranged in circular patterns. A second common form had heterogeneous cytoplasm distended with phagosomes containing numerous small granular spheres of various sizes and electron densities. The least common were "young" macrophages containing phagocytic vacuoles. Rare macrophages in four of 13 dogs contained bacteria. Macrophages in five of the dogs contained abundant coccoid, coccobacillary of lobulated granular structures, 100-500 nm in diameter, resembling chlamydia. Transition from phagocytic particle to phagosome to residual body was apparent. Granulomatous colitis of Boxer dogs is probably caused by a lipid-rich, ribosome-rich, coccoid to coccobacillary organism that possesses a cell membrane and sometimes a nucleoid, and ranges from 100 to 500 nm in size.


[Influence of qualitatively different fats on the level of cholesterol and phospholipids in the blood serum and liver on rats in choline-protein insufficiency]. The effect of lard and sunflower oil making part of a cirrhogenic ration with a high content of fat and deficient protein and choline on the level of total and esterified cholesterol and phospholipids in the blood serum and liver was studied. The experiments lasted for 150 and 210-240 days. Changes in the level of cholesterol and phospholipids in the blood serum and liver of the rats were noted to occur from the first days of developing fat dystrophy (fatty degeneration) of the liver, these changes gaining in intensity with lengthening of the test periods and progressive development of the pathological process. The quality of the fat influenced the extent of the upset cholesterol and phospholipids metabolism, since the saturated fat which accelerated and intensified the development of lipohepatosis and cirrhosis caused a significantly greater accumulation of the cholesterol ethers in the liver and reduction of these ethers, as well as of phospholipids in the serum. An addition of choline to the rations prevented the development of lipohepatosis, but failed to avert upsets of the lipids metabolism.


[Influence of various amounts of dietary protein on the age-related peculiarities of protein synthesis]. In tests set up on young and old rats receiving isocaloric food rations with 9, 18 and 36 per cent of casein and by using glycin-20(14) the intensity of the tissular and serumal proteins biosynthesis was studied. An elevated content of protein in the rations of young animals, as distinct from the old ones, promotes activation of the assimilation and dissimilation phases of the proteinic metabolism. A low protein content in the rations finds its expression young animals in restriction of adaptation possibilities, in reduced intensity and in lowered intensity of the protein synthesis, although it continues at a higher level than in older animals. Differences in the level of the studied figures in young and old animals are pronounced least with the 18 per cent ration, this bearing proof to the absence of any essential age-specific difference in the requirements of the organism in food proteins, when its content in the rations is optimal.


[Metabolism of Co58 labelled vitamin B12 in white rats under normal conditions and in starvation]. The effect of complete facting on the distribution of vitamin B12-Co58 in the organs of albino rats and excretion of the label from their organism were studied. Complete fasting did not alter the order in which the summary amount of the labelled compound accumulated in different organs. After 2 days of complete fasting in animals sacrificed 3 and 24 hours following introduction of the tagged vitamin the incorporation of the atter in the organs drastically decreased by comparison with controls. In the group of animals sacrificed 3 hours after introduction of the tagged vitamin two peaks of mounting relative specific radioactivity (RSR) of the organs were detected, viz. on the 4th and 11th day. In the group of animals sacrificed 24 hours after introduction of the vitamin B12-CO58 the RSR of the organs began to rise starting from the 4th day and continued up to and including the 11th day of complete fasting. On introduction of B12-Co58 to the animals complete fasting doubled the rate of the radioactivity passage with urine and feces.


[Extraction and characterization of a gastrosecretagogue peptide from the pancreas (author's transl)]. A peptide which stimulates gastric acid secretion in the rat has been isolated from the normal porcine pancreas. It consists of 13 amino acids and has a molecular weight of 1286. It has been named GSP (gastrosecretagogue pancreatic peptide) on account of its main biological activity. Although its influence on gastric acid secretion is gastrin-like, there are marked biochemical and immunological differences between gastrin and GSP. The two substances are separable from each other by Sephadex gel filtration, by ion-exchange chromatography, and by disc electrophoresis. Furthermore, there are differences in the UV-absorption spectrum and in the amino acid composition. GSP does not react with gastrin antibodies in a radioimmunological system. GSP is considered to be a new polypeptide hormone by means of which the pancreas plays a role in the regulation of gastric acid secretion.


[Influence of reducing diets on the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity of the fatty tissue in patients with metabolic-alimentary obesity]. The glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase activity by the fatty tissue in patients with alimentary adiposity was studied. A well-marked fall of the activity by comparison with controls, especially in patients with hyperlipidemia, was revealed. Following treatment of the patients with reduction diets their falling body weight was paralleled by significantly rising activity of the fatty tissue G-6-P-D. Tests in vitro failed to show pyridozine and pyridoxal-6-phosphate to affect the activity of the enzyme.


[Modes of occurrence of accidental scalds and burns in infancy and childhood (author's transl)]. The modes of occurrence of scalds and burns of varying severity in infancy and childhood were statistically compiled from the case notes of 790 patients admitted to the Department of Paediatrics, University of Graz during the years 1968 to 1973. The most frequent mode of injury was pulling down pots containing hot fluids from stoves and other elevated places (37% cases); 26% of the children were scalded by tripping over pots placed on the floor by adults and falling into the spilt liquid, 11% received burns by touching hot objects or by direct contact with fire and 9% were burned accidentally in a "passive" manner by their siblings or parents. In 18% of cases the accidents happened in a variety of more unusual ways. The age of the injured child and the time of day of the event both appear to play an important role in the genesis of the accident, whereas the season of the year and social status seem to be of minor importance in this connexion. The most important preventive measure is the adequate instruction of parents and others in charge of young children in respect to the common domestic hazards in everyday life which may lead to scalds and burns.


[Dialdehyde starches and their hygienic evaluation]. The paper carries some information on modified starches. Tests were staged on albino rats (males and females) to investigate samples of maize dialdehyde starches with the degree of oxidation of 0 (control), 5, 10 and 25 per cent. For 20--25 days the animals were fed on a synthetic diet in which the whole of the starch was replaced with the dialdehyde starch. As demonstrated, the 25% oxidation starch produced an adverse effect on the rats, viz. the animals lagged in the weight gain, suffered from diarrhea and the content of the intestinal enzymes was below that in controls. Feeding of the rats on starch with a lower degree of oxidation was attended by retardation in weight but did not produce any noticeable functional intestinal disorders.


[The importance and organization of coronary intensive care units (author's transl)]. Coronary care units, their organization, functioning and therapeutic results are described. If a medical intensive care service is available in the area, then coronary care should be connected to it. The qualifications and specialist training of the medical and nursing staff are discussed, as well as the organization of coronary care in sparsely-populated areas. Correct transportation is important. Adequate information with regard to coronary care facilities should be given to high-risk patients and their relatives, and the population should be informed as to the prevention of coronary disease.


[Influence of an anti-atherosclerotic diet containing a protein enricher on the clinico-biochemical indices of patients with ischemic heart disease]. Observations covered two groups of patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). The first, control group (50 patients) received a course of treatment with antiatherosclerotic diet, while the second (50) was kept on a curative diet that included a protein enrichment agent. It was found that the patients of the lastly named group demonstrated, along with an improved general condition and diminution of basic clinical manifestation of IHD, a more noticeable fall of all the lipid fractions and also a more distinct and significant reduction of an elevated permeability of the capillaries to protein. The results obtained justify recommending inclusion of the protein enrichment agent in the diet of patients with IHD, to increase the biological value of the ration and the effect of the ongoing dietotherapy.


[The effect of propanidid in patients with an increased tendency to cerebral convulsions (author's transl)]. In view of the observation of tonic-clonic convulsions after the use of Propanidid in certan patients, a study was undertaken of the effects of this drug (7 mg/kg) on the EEG of 2 volunteers with a known history of epilepsy. Both subjects developed tonic-clonic convulsions and showed typical alterations of the EEG pattern even before the onset of hyperventilation. These EEG alterations were producible also during complete relaxation. The convulsions were easily stopped by the administration of short-acting barbiturates. Similar observations reported in the literature are briefly discussed. The conclusion is drawn that Propanidid should not be given to patients with a known history of epilepsy or any other convulsive disease.


[Degree of oxidation of oils in the production of canned food]. Data on the degree of the thermal oxidation of vegetable oil in some samples of canned fish are reported and these indicated that the oil contains on the average 1.5 per cent of the oxidation products. A comparatively high degree of the oil oxidation is, apparently, due to the fact that the fish processing factories lack clearcut instructions as to the way and the timing with which is to be used in direct-heat fish ovens.


[Estrogenic effect of white head cabbage (Brassica aleraceae)]. An extract obtained from dessicated white cabbage with the help of chloroform and introduced subcutaneously or perorally to sexually immature mice in an equivalent corresponding to 5 g of the dry product for a space of 4--6 days displayed an extrogenic action. Long-term storage, souring, cooking of the cabbage result in a somewhat diminished estrogenic activity of the cabbage.


[Fatal self-poisoning with the tetracyclic antidepressive drug, ludiomil (author's transl)]. The clinical and analytical data are presented of a case of severe Ludiomil self-poisoning (assumed total ingested dose: 3000 mg). Ludiomil resembles the tricyclic antidepressive drugs in regard to its toxic effects. Two essential observations made in Ludiomil poisoning are: 1) the limited therapeutic possibilities due to delayed elimination and 2) the severe degree of respiratory distress.


[Influence of the storage and culinary processing of irradiated potatoes on the cytogenetic activity of extracts obtained from them]. Male-rats (25--27 g) were given perorally extracts separated from potato subjected to gamma-radiation in a dose of 10 krads (test groups) and from nonirradiated tubers (controls). The extracts were introduced for a period of one week, daily in an amount of 1 ml. The male from the test groups (each numbering 8--10 animals) received extracts of the raw potato stored for 4 months after irradiation and of the potato subjected to thermal treatment (cooking) after 1 day, 1 and 4 months of its storage. The frequency of chromosomal aberrations in the bone marrow cells was determined by the anaphase method. Altogether about 34 thous. cells (500-600 from each animal) were counted. The results testified to a significantly reduced frequency of chromosomal aberrations (bridges and fragments) occurring in the bone marrow cells of the mice which received extracts from the raw stored irradiated potato and from thermally treated freshly irradiated tubers, as compared to extracts obtained from the raw freshly irradiated potatoes. The extracts of irradiated potato cooked after 1 and 4 month of storage did not display any mutagenic properties.


[Xylitol metabolism in human erythrocytes]. 1. Washed human erythrocytes metabolize 1,14 muMol xylitol in 120 min under the following experimental conditions: pH 7.4 and 37 degrees C. 2. The levels of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate and ATP decrease during the incubation with xylitol. This decrease is not a specific effect of xylitol, but depends on the amount of C-atoms taken up. This could be shown in control experiments with fructose and glucose as substrates given separated or in combination with xylitol. The highest uptake of C-atoms has been observed with glucose plus xylitol as substrate. 3. 99% of the metabolized xylitol was recovered in the products lactate, Co2 and D-xylulose. 4. There was no measurable oxalate production from xylitol.


[Behavior of electrolytes in the metabolism of hunger]. In 20 patients, undergoing a fasting period of 14 days, electrolyt balances were studied. Ten patients received 80 mval potassium per day. Sodium, potassium, calcium and phosphate in blood did not change; bicarbonate and chloride levels diminished. Balance studies showed a significant loss of potassium in both groups. Product of sodium and potassium was constant; calcium balance was positive, whereas that of phosphate was negative. During addition of 80 mval potassium per day significant change of sodium balance occurred.


[Changes in serum electrolyte concentration and electrolyte excretion induced through infusion of glucose or glucose-exchange substances]. The metabolic effects of intravenous infusion of glucose, fructose, sorbitol or xylitol were investigated using human volunteers. The infusion period was 4 hours or 48 hours. Serum phosphate concentration decreased quickly and independent on the kind of the carbohydrate used. On the other hand, the serum concentration of potassium or sodium did not show any greater deviations from normal. Considering the renal excretion, greater differences between the single substances were seen. Renal potassium excretion was increased especially during xylitol infusions, and not as much during sorbitol infusions, as compared to infusions with glucose or with fructose. These differences were demonstrated especially for the first 12 hours of the infusions periond. During the infusions of glucose or of fructose an oral substitution of the electrolytes was suggicient. However, during xylitol infusions an intravenous substitution of potassium salts was necessary, despite the fact that the changes in serum concentration were only small. It is emphasized to carefully monitor serum electrolyte concentration and renal electrolyte excretion during long lasting intravenous infusions therapy.


[Recommendations for the use of carbohydrates in the infusion therapy]. In healthy subjects the recommended dosages of carbohydrates are as follows: glucose 0.750 g/kg/h during 12 hours, fructose 0.250 g/kg/h during 12 hours. sorbitol 0.250 g/kg/h during 12 hours, xylitol 0.125 g/kg/h during 12 hours, glucose, fructose and xylitol as a carbohydrate mixture (2:1:1) 0.500 g/kg/h during 12 hours. Increase in uric acid, bilirubin and lactate levels is diminished if the carbohydrate mixture and amino acids are infused together. During application of an electrolyte-free carbohydrate solution the electrolyte loss depends on the dosage. This electrolyte loss is diminished when carbohydrates and electrolytes are given in combination. The precise dosage of trace elements like zinc or magnesium is unknown. A 12-hours infusion time is recommended. Thereafter a pause is needed for the normalisation of metabolic changes.


[Liver damage following intestinal by-pass surgery for weight reduction]. The jejuno-ileal bypass for weight reduction can hardly be considered a non-specific treatment: 3-4% of the patients develop chronic hepatic damage, 1-2% suffer hepatic failure due to massive fatty liver, rapidly progressing liver cirrhosis or hepatic fibrosis. Fatty liver is an invariable sequel of this operation. Once the above-mentioned symptoms set in or an incipient cirrhosis or fibrosis is diagnosed, immediate restoration of normal passage is required. The intestinal bypass syndrome observed in the patient (fem.) (viz. table 1) does not wholly coincide with the enteral bile acid loss syndrome occurring in extensive ileum resection (56) where usually there is no evidence of fatty liver, icterus, cholestasis or encephalopathy. Animal experiments seem to confirm that the blind loop in the broadest sense of the term is responsible for the sometimes fatal hepatic damage. Possibly we are confronted here with a pattern of hepatic damage due to toxic nutritive effects similar to cirrhosis as a sequel of low-protein and low-calorie intake or to the phenomenon observed in animal experiments. The cholestasis confirmed by biopsy and chemical methods is a manifestation of these hepatic disorders. The clinical aspects resemble the Reye syndrome that we know in pediatrics. Patients have to be carefully selected and informed about possible postoperative damage; a continuous clinical follow-up with biopsy of the hepatic tissue is also indicated.


[Macroscopic and histometric studies on the experimental acetic-acid ulcer of the rat stomach]. This work is concerned with the formation, development and healing of a chronic experimental ulcer produced by the injection of a 30 percent solution of acetic acid in the submucosa of the rat stomach. The healing process of the induced lesions was assessed by comparing their diameters with macroscopic as well as microscopic measuring techniques. Observations were made at 17 different time points from 5 minutes to 245 days after induction on groups of 5 to 10 rats each. The macroscopically and microscopically determined values agreed well for the period from 3 hours to 12 days. However, at the earlier and later time points differences occurred because of the histological changes peripheral to the lesions and increased enlargement of the regenerating area respectively. Healing proceeded slowly. On day 147 and 245 the ulcerated lesion was still detectable in one out of 10 animals. An exacerbation of ulcers as reported by others did not seem to be present.


[Partially mechanized determination of protein and desoxyribonucleic acid in the mucosa of the small intestine on microliter scale]. The protein determination method according to Lowry and the DNA test according to Schneider were adapted to a microliter scale thus rendering feasible serial determinations with an adequate degree of accuracy. The criteria for reliability (precision within the series and day after day) are sufficient.


[Light and electron microscopy studies on the rat gastrointestinal tract following oral administration of chenodesoxycholic acid]. The influence of chenodesoxycholic acid on the gastro-intestinal tract of male Wistar rats was studied. Chenodesoxycholic acid was orally administered in a dosis of 20mg/kg body weight over a period of 5, 14, 20, 30 and 60 days. The electron microscope revealed only slight pathological changes compared to the control group of untreated animals. While stomach, duodenum and ascending colon were found to be non-specific, supranuclear fatty deposits were detected in the jejunum; in the terminal ileum and the jejunum swollen microvilli and a loosening of the terminal reticulum was observed.


[The effectiveness of the new corticoid A 41 304. Evaluation by means of a graphic presentation]. In an intra-individual, symetrical comparative study, the efficacy of a new corticoid of external use-A 41 304- was compared to that of a preparation of reknown effect. Fluocinolon-acetonide. The treatment included 25 patients with bilateral symetrical lesions of Psoriasis, in their majority of prolonged, continuous and not regressive development. Furthermore, the study included 13 patients with eczematoid dermatits. A graphic method of evaluation was employed, which permitted an integrated study of the intensity, the rapidity and the duration of the morbistatic effect of the preparations. Under the conditions of the clinical experimentation which were applied, the new preparation (A 41 304) proved to be more effective than Fluocinolone-acetonide. The characteristics of the new graphic method of evaluation are discussed.


[Clinical experiences with a new topical steroid]. 44 patients have been treated in a double-blind trial with Desoximetason (0.25%) and with Betamethasone-valerate (0.1%). It was a randomised left-right comparative trial, and Desoximetason was significantly better than the comparative drug in all observation periods (except the period 1-2 days). Desoximetason has also been tested on 280 patients in an open trial, showing good efficacy and good tolerance.


[The use of Topisolone in dermatoses].

[The use of Topisolone in dermatoses]. Topisolon (Desoximetasone) has been used under clinical conditions on 42 patients with acute and chronic dermatoses. This was a comparative trial on symetric areas. Topisolon with the test name A 41 304 has been compared to an 0,1% triamcinolon-acetonide ointment. Topisolon showed a quick onset of action. After 14 days of treatment a good result has been seen in 88% of the cases and in only 5% the effect has been moderate. The drug has been used in psoriasis vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, and lichen ruber. No side effects or irritations have been seen except one case of candidiasis. On five diabetics treated no influence on blood sugar level could be seen.


[Diagnostic and therapeutic problems in lichen ruber ulcerosus]. Report on two patients with ulcerative lichen planus (l.r. u.) of the feet. The experience which results from these two cases and 22 others which have been reported in the literature were the following: 1. After long periods of standing such lesions show a pronounced tendency to become malignant. 2. The only treatment which offers a lasting succes is skin-grafting, the chances of which are the better the earlier it is performed. 3. Early diagnosis of L. r. u. may be impossible on clinical and histopathological grounds only; application of immunofluorescence methods may yield additional diagnostic criteria.


[The luminal surface of the rat trachea during ontogenesis]. To complete the hitherto existing results about the trachea epithelium, the scanning electron microscope was used to get representative statements about the apical surface of the epithelium: First of all the epithelium consists of undifferentiated round cells with cytopodia. The cells rarely carry single cilia at the same time. At the 18. day of pregnancy nearly all of the cells have a single cilium. Until the end of the intrauterine phase the single cilia are retracted again. At the 20. day ciliated cells and cells with protrusions are formed. Mucus granula are secreted into the lumen already before birth. Immediately post partum much mucus appears. Its distribution, viscosity and optical behaviour is different. For ciliated cells and goblet cells no special characteristical distribution was noticed. The building of the cells surface was detailed discussed. The question about function of the single cilia cannot yet be answered.


Effect of electrical stimulation of the olfactory tract and the caudal spinal cord on the Dahlgren cells in Clarias batrachus L. Electrical stimuli applied to the olfactory tract for one minute caused partial depletion, but for two to five minutes resulted in complete depletion of the neurosecretory material (NSM) from the Dahlgren cells as well as from the urophysis. However, if similar stimuli were directly applied to the caudal spinal cord for one minute, the NSM was completely depleted. The neurosecretory granules were reaccumulated in the neurons within fifteen minutes after the stimuli were cut of A rapid depletion of the NSM from the caudal neurons was correlated with their electrical properties and rapid transduction of nervous information into the hormonal message. The immediate response of the caudal neurons to the olfactory tract stimulation suggested that the former are synaptically controlled by a center in the brain.


Neuroendocrine organs of the lemon-butterfly, Papilio demoleus L. I. The corpora cardiaca-allata complex of the larva. The histomorphology of the retrocerebral endocrine organs of the larva of the lemon-butterfly, P. demoleus has been described employing a conventional neurosecretory staining technique. The larval organs lie a little away from the brain and oesophagus and, therefore, are not sub-aortic in position unlike most other insects and the adult of this species itself. There are two long NCCs which innervate other target organs in addition to the CC. The recurrent nerve of the stomatogastric nervous system retains its normal connections with the CC even in absence of the hypocerebral ganglion. Histological evidence suggests that the NSM inside the CC remains intraaxonal without being possibly unloaded in the substance of these organs. Axonal transport of NSM to target organs is also in evidence and though NSM is seen in the NCA, it could not be detected inside the CA.


Electron cytochemistry of acetylcholinesterase in the neuromuscular junction during ontogenesis. Electron histochemical studies were performed on neuromuscular junctions of the diaphragm in early postnatal states of development in rat by means of the acetylthiocholine technique. Presynaptic AChE appears to be derived from perikaryal sources, carried along by means of axonal transport mechanisms. Postsynaptic AChE is synthesized in the sarcotubular system of the underlying muscle fiber and within the perinuclear and endoplasmic reticulum of fundamental cells. Distribution of AChE synthesizing loci parallels with that of acetylcholine sensitive areas.


[Scanning electron microscopy of the dental enamel from a dermoid teratoma]. Tooth enamel in the dermal teratoma is constructed very much like normal human tooth enamel, but is relatively less mineralized because of low phosphate supply. Prism bands are not present; the reasons for this are not clear. In the inner half of the enamel are numerous lumpy aggregates budded off from the tissue of the enamel organ. Enamel in the vicinity of these aggregates is abnormally constructed.


[Histometric findings in the adrenals of the domestic pig with reference to constitutional defects]. The Piétrain pigs are significant different from the German Landrace and the Edelschwein in the histometrical parameters of the adrenal glands like cortex and medulla part, height of the cortex regions, part of adrenaline and noradrenaline producing cells. The weight of their adrenal glands is less than in the other races but their part of Zona fasciculata and of adrenaline producing cells is comparably high. These findings let expect distinct reactions on stressors. There are no hints on insufficiency of the adrenal glands. The histometrical parameters and the blood cortisol levels are discussed with regard to deficiencies in meat quality.


[Quantitative studies on the neuron structure of the rat fascia dentata]. 1. In 6 month old male rats the structure of dendrites and the distribution of spines on the apical dendrites of granular cells of the dentate gyrus were investigated by light microscopy and statistical methods. 2. The number of dendrites of the first, second and third order of granular cells increases in this sequence in a ratio of 1:2:3; the total length of the dendrites increases correspondently in a ratio of 1:4:5. 3. The mean number of origin points of dendritic branches is 10, the mean number of free dendritic endings is 12. 4. The number of spines per a 25 mum dendritic segment near to the pericaryon (dendritic segment A), in the middle of the dendrite (dendritic segment B) and in the peripheral dendritic part (dendritic segment C) as well as the distribution of spines in the whole apical dendrite was evaluated. The total mean of spines of granular cell apical dendrites of the dentate gyrus (superior respectively inferior) is 12 respectively 10 for the dendritic segment A, 18 respectively 17 for the dendritic segment B and 17 respectively 15 for the dendritic segment C calculated for a dendritic length of 25 mum. 5. The spine density in each case depends upon the distance pericaryondendritic segment and is in close relation to the adjacent layers with their specific afferents. 6. The averaged total number of spines per 1 mum of dendritic length is 0,62 spines/mum for the dentate gyrus (superior) and 0,57 spines/mum for the dentate gyrus (inferior). 7. The granular cells of the dentate gyrus (superior) have a mean dendritic length of a total of 357 mum with a total of 226 visible spines; the granular cells of the dentate gyrus (inferior) have a mean dendritic length of a total of 450 mum with a total of 258 visible spines.


[Relais cells and afferent axons in the dorsal part of the lateral geniculate body in the albino rat under geometrical aspects]. 1. The average volumes of dendritic domaines of relay neurons (P-neurons) were calculated and the quantitative relations to the neuronal elements situated in this area were investigated. Likewise we carried out measurements and calculations at the terminal parts of afferent axons, to find a conception concerning possible contacts between axons and P-neurons considering quantitative aspects. 2. The dendrites of one P-neuron are distributed in an area of about 0,008 mum3. In this area there are located somata of at least 120 other P-neurons and dendrites of altogether about 900 P-neurons. 3. The type-1-axons (cortical afferents) run almost linearly in the longitudinal system of the CGLd. Traversing a distance adequate to the diameter of a P-neuron (250 mum) the dendrites of 150 to 170 P-neurons may cross the course of one axon. At this distance the axon, however, has just set up about 50 boutons, thus synaptic contacts may be established with one third at most of the existing cells. A type-1-axon that is bifurcating in the entrance area into the CGLd is altogether of about 2000 mum in length and is able to develop about 420 presynaptic profiles. 4. The type-2-axons (retinal afferents) show a distinct terminal branching zone. The Golgi-Kopsch impregnated terminals of type-2a-axons are distributed in a space of 147000 mum3 capacity, the corresponding terminals of type-2b-axons in a space of 443000 mum3. The type-2a-axons having an average number of 23 boutons, may contact the dendritic branching zones of 25 P-neurons. There is a good reason to assume that type-2b-axons are in contact also with terminal dendritic parts of P-neurons. Thus the number of P-cells, which spread their dendrites into the terminal branching zone of one type-2b-axon may amount to 540. The average number of boutons of one type-2b-terminal, however, is only about 160. This means that synaptic contacts may be developed to the P-neurons-dendrites not exceeding 30% of them. 5. Various aspects of divergence of axon terminals in the albino rat's CGLd are discussed.


[The ultrastructure of the rat esophageal epithelium during ontogenesis]. The development of the epithelium of the rat esophagus was examined continuously from the 13th day post-conception until one day post-partum. Besides the single-results at different phases of development the knowledge, that the esophageal ontogeny of different mammalians may be considerably different, is of special importance. To this matter of fact was not paid attention in present literature, but the authors accentuate common things. The significant results during development are the following: 1. The completely undifferentiated epithelium of the 13th day at the same time develops basement-membrane and basic membrane of the cytoplasm. The organelles are under construction. Centriols in cells near to the lumen are seen in connection to the single-cilia, which occur till the 17th day of ontogeny. These essentially differ from cilia of the ciliated epithelium. 2. The cylindrical epithelium constitutes until the 16th day. Afterwards the first synthetic productivity like organisation of filaments are observed. By that superficial cells loose their capacity to divide. 3. On the 17th day intercellular spaces between neighbouring cells at the lumen abruptly rip up. In loco cylindrical cells change to squamous cells. There are no essential differences in time between cranial and caudal parts of the esophagus which proofs an entodermal genesis of the epithelium. 4. Changes in the ultrastructure at about 19 days p.c. cause the epithelium's keratinization. 5. 21 days p.c. few cilia-bearing cells scattered between the cells in keratinization are to be seen. 6. Before birth superficial cells become separated and are shed from the surface completely post-partum.


[The postnatal development of the hypoglossal nucleus in the rat]. Using light and electron microscopy the neurons, glial cells and capillaries in hypoglossal nucleus of the rats have been examined up to 20 days after birth. The neuronal nuclei are usually situated ecentrically. The mitochondria and extensively developed Golgi-zones occupy the perinuclear region. The microtubules and lysosomes become more numerous with aging. At the earliest periods rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) occupies the neuronal periphery, whereas after 14th day it is extended to the perinuclear region also. The ER forms elongated and concentric lamellated bodies and subsurface cisternae. At this time nucleolus like bodies are also numerous in the cytoplasm. After 4th and 6th days the extensive growth of dendrites, containing many cell organelles, and axons rich in microtubules are observed. Only at the birthday do neurons contain glycogen deposit. After 1st day the glycogen leaves the pericaryon, but it persists a long time in the neuronal processes. The symmetrical and asymmetrical contacts are characteristic for the examined period. The axo-somatic and axo-dendritic synapses are more abundant, but "double synapses" are also established. More synaptic boutons possess besides synaptic vesicles dense-core vesicles at the earlier periods. The quantity of asymmetric synapses increases with differentiation. Extensive cell degeneration has been established between 8 and 18th days. At 4 and 6 days the glial cells penetrate from subependymal layer and they have satellite neuronal position. This is more pronounced between 14 and 18 days when the oligodendrocytes are more numerous and active. At the same time fibrous astrocyte like cells are appeared. Microglial cells were not observed. Capillary differentiation, expressed by changes of the endothelial cells, pericytes and connective tissue cells, continues after birth also.


Change of nuclear size in monolayer cells from embryonic mouse brain under the influence of cytosine-arabinoside. The influence of cytosine-arabinoside (ara-C) on the nuclear size of monolayer cells from mouse brains were studied by quantitative analysis with the Quantimet (area measurement) and linear analysis with the Digiscan. Ara C (0,1; 1,0; 10,0 mug/ml) causes a significant nuclear enlargement, depending on the dose of 16%, 30% and 35% respectively and at the same time a decrease in cell density and an inhibition of mitotic activity. The size-distribution graph is altered by ara-C: the graph flattens and widens at the base. Moreover, in the case of 10,0 mug ara-C/ml a pronounced graph shoulder is visible in the small nuclear size region which can be interpreted as a slight accumulation of small nuclei. The nuclear enlargement is possibly due to an accumulation of shortchain polynucleotides.


3H-tyrosin incorporation by foregut entoderm, as an additional proof of extra-glandular presence of endocrine ptoencies. Atopic transplants of embryonic rat larynx, trachea, and oesophagus incorporated 3H-tyrosine selectively and of similar degree to like transplants of thyroid. Further to similar observations with radioiodine, this finding supports the conclusion that primordial endocrinic potencies are retained, and can be activated, in a broader range of foregut derivatives than implied from the actual functional manifestations.


[The wall structure of the central vein of the human adrenal glands]. The wall structure of the vena centralis in the human adrenal gland was examined by light and electron microscopy. The longitudinal smooth muscle system in the wall of the central vein was found to be incomplete, eccentric, and located far from the intima. At the junction with smaller veins the muscle system increases in size so that a thickening protrudes the intima into the lumen. A structured intercellular substance of varying width is located between the endothelium and the smooth muscle system, and unmyelinated adrenergic nerve fibres extend to the endothelium. Vasa vasorum are found only in the periphery of the vascular walls. The findings are interpreted as follows: The construction of the vein walls in the medulla of the human adrenal gland acts as a protection against the excessive contractile effect of a small to medium concentration of noradrenalin from the adrenal medulla.


[Postnatal growth inhibition in the rat retina after actinomycin D adminstration]. The effects of actinomycin D on the development of the rats retina were observed. At the day of birth the inner neurons and the inner cells of the bipolar layer are vulnerable. The pale degeneration of these neurons accompanied by a dilatation of the endoplasmatic reticulum and the dark degeneration accompanied by a pycnosis and a shrinkage of the cytoplasm persist during the first 11 days after birth. The same alterations are to be seen in bipolar cells on day 11 after birth. The transient disorganisation of the inner layers could effect the ramification because the stratum reticulare internum is smaller as in untreated animals.


[The postnatal reaction of the albino rat pigment epithelium after administration of chloroquindiphosphate]. The development of pigment granules has been studied in 0...5 day old normal albino-rats and after a single injection of chloroquinediphosphat. During the postnatal time the pigment epithelial cell changes structurally. The basal region of the epithelium containes lipoidvacuoles and later on glycogen. The apical region form long skin projections that enclose the developing inner segments of photoreceptor cells. The pigment granules develop normally until the stage of melanin deposition. The lamellated premelanosomes are equipped by helical structures. The development of premelanosomes are not disturbed, by chloroquinediphosphate blocking the protein synthesis in the cell. The drug produce lamellated vacuoles inside the cell arising from the ergastoplasm. Also the extracellular space is enlarged. A significant increase or decrease in the number of phagosomes in the pigment epithelial cells after administration of the drug does not occur as compared to the cells of untreated animals.


Pituitary cytology of the chimaeroid fish Hydrolagus colliei (Lay and Bennett). The pituitary of Hydrolagus colliei is divided into the adenohypophysis, neurohypophysis and an oral Rachendachhypophyse. The adenohypophysis is further divided into rostral and proximal pars distalis and neurointermediate lobe. The neurohypophysis is restricted to the pars intermedia only. The rostral pars distalis is composed of acidophils, chromophobes, lightly PAS+ cells and amphiphils. The amphiphils were stained with Heidenhain's iron haematoxylin and lead haematoxylin also. The proximal pars distalis is formed of cyanophils where the granules are AF and PAS positive, acidophils, chromophobes and H.Pb+ cells. The pars intermedia has perviascular amphiphils which are H.Pb+, lightly PAS+ cells and chromophobes. Few AF+ cells were also identified. All the component parts of the adenohypophysis have follicular cavities which are probably developed from the hypophysial cavity, which is well seen in the young specimen as a single cavity extending antero-posteriorly throughout the adenohypophysis.


The influence of fasting and pancreatectomy on some glycolytic enzymes in the muscle of garden lizard, Calotes versicolor. The leg muscle of Calotes versicolor consists mainly of white fibers. They can be classified into small, intermediate and broad fibers according to their diameter and staining reaction. The histochemical study of some of the glycolytic enzymes such as aldolase, phosphorylase, lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and alpha-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase (alpha-GPDH) is described in the muscle of normal, pancreactomized and insulin injected animals. Highest activity of all enzymes was observed in the small fibers, though they occur in negligiable amount (3%). The intermediate and broad fibers exhibited medial and lowest activities respectively. 24 h after the extirpation of the pancreas a considerable inhibition is noted in the activities of phosphorylase, LDH and alpha-GPDH. Induced inanition for 21 days ensued insignificant but gradual decrease and increase in the alpha-GPDH and phosphorylase activities respectively in both unoperated and operated animals. The aldolase shows its mere presence in normal and trace activity in pancreatectomized animals. The injection of insulin (40 i.u./kg) at the interval of 30 min, 60 min, 4 h, 12 h and 24 h is given. The activities of all enzymes is stimulated at 30 min and depleted 4 h after the injection. The level of activity was remaintained at 12 h to 24 h stage. The possible physiological role and significance of enzymes in the synthesis and breakdown of glycogen is discussed.


Bypass of thoracic aorta using axillofemoral shunt. A left thoracotomy was performed and the thoracic aorta was occluded for 1 hr. in 7 dogs following placement of an 8 mm. right axillary-to-femoral artery shunt. Postop serial blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels showed no significant changes and pathological examination of the kidneys at 2 weeks showed no abnormalities. Neurological deficits were not observed, suggesting that an axillary-to-femoral bypass will maintain adequate perfusion to the lower body during cross-clamping of the thoracic aorta.


A simple method of changing clotted intra-arterial catheters. A simple technique for changing a clotted catheter is presented which has been frequently useful during percutaneous transfemoral coronary angiography. A guide wire is passed through a punched hole in the clotted catheter and a new catheter is inserted over the guide wire after the clotted catheter has been taken out.


The large spontaneous aorta inferior vena caval fistula. The subject of spontaneous aortocaval fistula due to a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm into the inferior vena cava is reviewed and discussed. An interesting case is presented with particular emphasis on the pre-operative findings which include lower body cyanosis; pain, numbness, and paralysis of the lower extremities; a cyanotic partial penile erection; and moderate shock. The cause of this syndrome is postulated.


Upper extremity wringer injury.

Upper extremity wringer injury. A clinical survey of 92 upper extremity wringer injuries over the past four years at the Bexar County Hospital are presented. Our treatment regimen and results are outlined. Complex injuries occurred infrequently (7%). No vascular insufficiency developed and no fasciotomies were required. We are of the opinion that hospitalization is necessary in all but a small number of selected cases. Close observation is necessary to prevent edema progression and further tissue loss. Ninety-two upper extremity compression injuries secondary to washing machine wringers were reviewed. Seventy-six percent of the injuries occurred in persons under 10 years of age. Extremity distribution was equal. Injury occurred below the elbow in 72% of the extremities. Soft tissue injury was manifested by swelling and tenderness in 96%. Twenty-one percent had no violation of the skin. Major avulsion, such as third degree skin loss, crush injury, dislocation, and tendon avulsion, occurred in 8%. The treatment regimen consisted of surgical preparation with Betadine, compressing dressing, and elevation. Observation of the involved extremity is made every hour for development of vascular insufficiency. Fractures and other major injuries were treated as indicated. No fasciotomy was required. No vascular insufficiency developed. SKin slough was present in 16 of 92 extremities and skin graft was required in 5 of the 16. Results of treatment reveal 87% with no functional impairment of the involved extremity. Varying degrees of impairment are present in 6% of the injured extremities with all localized to the major avulsion group of injuries.


[Determination of zeranol in meat (author's transl)]. A qualitative and quantitative method for the determination of zeranol in meat and liver is described. The analysis procedure includes methanol extraction, enzymatic hydrolysis of possibly existing conjugates, and liquid-liquid partition, followed by two-dimensional thin layer chromatography. Zeranol is selectively made visible as a red-violet spot with Fast Blue B salt. The  detection limit in meat is found to be 10 ppb. For the quantitative determination zeranol is eluted from the TLC plates and reacted with Fast Blue B salt. A quantitative determination can be performed with a concentration of 0.4 ppm. The application of this method demonstrated the presence of zeranol in 2 out of 18 commercially obtained samples.


[Bitter peptides of casein isolated by hydrolysis with alpha-chymotrypsin and trypsin (author's transl)]. Two bitter peptides, H-Phe-Tyr-Pro-Glu-Leu-Phe-OH (I) and H-Val-Glu-Val-Phe-Ala-Pro-Pro-Phe-OH (II) were isolated from casein, hydrolyzed by alpha-chymotrypsin. The hexapeptide is cleaved by thermolysine between Glu and Leu. The two fragments are bitter too. A bitter dodecapeptide (III) was obtained 20 min hydrolysis of casein with trypsin. On account of amino acid composition and N-terminus peptide III is probably identical with a peptide from a 12 hrs hydrolyzate, described in 1970 by Matoba. The peptides I and III have equal taste tresholds in the range of 0.08-0.10 muM/ml.


[Simplification of the dinitrophenylhydrazine method for the photometric determination of ascorbic acid and dehydroascorbic acid in fruit juices. I. Application to juice of black current (author's transl)]. The photometric determination of ascorbic acid and dehydroascorbic acid by preparing the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone derivative of dehydroascorbic acid and purifying it by thinlayerchromatography was simplified and adapted to the microliter system of Eppendorf Gerätebau, Hamburg, Germany. Using this method with juice of black current, quite reproducible results for vitamin C contents were obtained. Compared with the method of the International Federation of Fruit Juice Producers (titration with 2,6-dichlorphenolindophenol) the contents of vitamin C found with nine different commercial juices of black current were lower from 13 to 30%.


[Investigation on the aroma of roasted onions (author's transl)]. A large number of volatile compounds are formed when onions are heated in butter. More than 120 compounds could be identified with GC-MS-technic. The majority of the substances is not characteristic for the onion aroma. Compounds formed according to a patented production of onion aroma could not be identified.


[V. The phenolics of strawberries and their changes during development and ripeness of the fruits (author's transl)]. 16 strawberry varieties contained ca. 10--70 mg (+)-catechin per kg freshweight, frequently up to 10 mg (-)-epicatechin, seldom (+)-gallocatechin and never (-)-epigallocatechin. The phenolic contents after hydrolysis were up to ca. 10 mg caffeic acid, ca. 10--15 mg p-coumaric acid, ca. 10--35 mg 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, up to 6 mg protocatechuic acid and ca. 10--40 mg gallic acid per 1000 g freshweight. From "Senga Sengana" ca. 10 mg/kg methyl gallate and ellagic acid were isolated. Salicylic acid, gentisic acid and vanillic acid were found in traces (1 mg/kg). The concentrations of all the examined phenolic acids, relating to the whole fruit (mg per fruit) increased, and, relating to fresh weight (mg per kg) decreased during the growth of the fruits with exception of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. This acid appeared only in a relatively late stage of the fruit. The changes in catechins were similar. In the ripe fruit the catechin level was reduced a little.


[Determination of D-isocitric-acid in currant products (author's transl)]. The determination of D-isocitric-acid in currant products is described Disturbances by ingredients can be eliminated with polyamide. It is suggested that the citric: isocitric acid ratio can be used to detect adulterated products.


Aflatoxin can be degraded by the mycelium of aspergillus parasiticus. Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were degraded by the 8- and 16-day old but not by the 4-day old mycelium of a toxigenic strain of Aspergillus parasiticus. The 16-day old mycelium degraded the toxin more rapidly than did the 8-day old mycelium. Degradation of toxin by the mycelium was similar at pH 2.5 and 6.0.


The effect of zinc and phytic acid on the incorporation of 1-14C-acetate into aflatoxin by resting mycelia of Aspergillus parasiticus. The effect of zinc and phytic acid on [1-14C]-acetate incorporation into aflatoxins by resting mycelium was studied. When different levels of ZnSO4 were used to study its effect on the incorporation of [1-14C]-acetate into aflatoxins, it was found that the specific radioactivity incorporation into aflatoxins was maximum at the level of 10 mM-ZnSO4. At this concentration the change in the specific radioactivities of aflatoxins B1 + B2 and aflatoxins G1 + G2 were +74.61% and +29.66%, respectively. On the other hand, phytic acid had an inhibitory effect on the incorporation of [1-14C]-acetate. These observations have been correlated in order to find out why soyabean is unable to produce aflatoxins by Aspergillus parasiticus.


[Relations between structure and bitter taste of amino acids and peptides. I. Amino acids and related compounds]. About 60 amino acids, amino acid esters, N-acyl amino acids, amines, and other related compounds were tested for bitter taste. The recognition thresholds are in the range from 100 muMol/ml (L-2-amino butyric acid) to 0.8 muMol/ml (benzamide). Essential structural requirements for bitter compounds are a polar (electrophilic) group and a hydrophobic one, which must be arranged in a defined manner. The results are summarized in a model which shows the zones of contact between bitter compound and receptor.


The phenolics of fruits. VII. The phenolics of cherries and plums and the changes in catechins and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives during the development of fruits. Quantitative data of hydroxycinnamic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids and hydroxycoumarins (after hydrolysis of derivatives) and of catechins are given. -Large quantities of catechins and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives are found in the young fruit. Related to mg per kg fresh weight these concentrations soon decline sharply, especially during the progressive growth of the fruits. Related to mg per fruit, the concentrations of catechins increase progressively with fruit development, showing a loss when reaching maturity. The concentrations of hydroxycinnamic acids increase in a similar manner, but show in part a remarkable loss when examined after removal of the harder seeds.


[Investigation on coffee and coffee-substitutes. XVII. Behaviour of polysaccharide-complexes of robusta-coffee during roasting]. Two varieties of Coffea robusta of light, medium and dark roasting degree were investigated. The results were similar to those which were published earlier concerning Coffea arabica. One part of the mannane and galactane is destroyed. Another part, which exists originally as a constituent of the holocellulose, is made water soluble. Of this part, the mannane is found in the complex of water soluble polysaccharides, the galactane in the complex of galactoarabane.


[Contamination of milk and milk products with chlorinated hydrocarbons in the Westphalian area. II. Results and discussion]. During the time of August 1972 til end of January 1974 samples of butter from 20 dairies from the westfalian area were investigated with regard to their content of chlorinated hydrocarbons. In all samples of milk and butter could be proved: HCB, alpha-, beta-, and gamma-BHC, Heptachlorepoxid (HE), DDT, DDE, DDD, Dieldrin and PCB's, not however, Aldrin, Heptachlor and o,p'-DDT. With HCB, alpha- and gamma-BHC a dependance on the season was observed with maximum values during the winter months. With DDT, DDE and HE the variations were less. With PCB's dependencies on the season or influences of the location were not be recognised. The structure of farming seems to have a significant influence on the contents of HCB. In the course of butter processing the content on chlorinated hydrocarbons related to milk fat is not changed, metabolization does not play a role, either. With the start of lactation the concentration of chlorinated hydrocarbons especially of PCB's are increased as could be shown with single samples.


[On phenolic acids of vegetables. I. Hydroxycinnamic acids and hydroxybenzoic acids of brassica-species and leaves of other cruciferae (author's transl)]. The contents of phenolic acids in vegetables of the species Brassica almost totally consist of hydroxycinnamic acid compounds. In contrary to other species of vegetables sinapic acid is dominant. Leaves of radish (Rhaphanus sativus var. sativus and var. niger) mainly contain compounds of caffeic and p-coumaric acid; leaves of horse radish show only traces of hydroxycinnamic acids. In the group of hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives traces of salicylic and gentistic acid could be determined in almost all species and frequently vanillic acid. Protocatechnic acid was only identified in red cabbage, especially in the head, syringic acid in gardencress and p-hydroxybenzoic acid in horse radish leaves. No other hydroxybenzoic acids or hydroxycoumarins could be detected.


Formation of volatile compounds and brown products in the model system n-hexanal-glycine. During the boiling of a mixture of n-hexanal and glycine in aqueous medium, pH value 9, both soluble and insoluble brown colored pigments and volatile compounds were formed. The following volatile compounds were identified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry; hexanone, decenone, undecenone, undecan-5-one, undecenedione, dodecenone, tridecanone, dodecanedione, tridecenone, dodecenedione, hexenyl hexanoate, caproic, valeric and butyric acids. The brown coloured pigments insoluble in water contained 0.57% of nitrogen. The presence of conjugated double-bonds, carbonyl and carboxyl groups was confirmed by spectral methods. The pigments were also separated by thin-layer chromatography on silica gel.


[The determination of saccharin by gas chromatography after methylation with diazomethane (author's transl)]. Saccharin may be determined by gas chromatography after methylation with diazomethane. In this reaction there are found N-methyl-saccharin, and the O-methyl ether as well  as methoxycarbonyl benzenesulfonamide by ring fission.


Fluorescence changes of aflatoxins B1 and G1. The effects of various factors, such as pH, buffer, sodiumchloride and ultra-violet radiation on the fluorescence of aflatoxins B1 and G1 have been studied. The fluorescence characteristics of aflatoxins B1 and G1 underwent a marked change at pH values above 7.2. Prolonged exposure to ultra-violet radiation lead to some degradation of aflatoxins and the extent of degradation was dependent upon the nature of the solvent. Sodium chloride partially protected the toxins from degradation by ultra-violet radiation or alkaline conditions.


[Photometric determination of arsenic in biological samples (author's transl)]. A modified method by means of absorption of AsH3 in chloroform with an addition of 0,5% hexamethylene-tetramine is described. The detection limit amounts to 0,5 mug arsenic. Arsenic contents of some higher burdened foodstuff are amended.


[Bitter peptides isolated from corn protein zein by hydrolysis with pepsin (author's transl)]. Eight peptides with bitter taste were isolated from a hydrolyzate of the corn protein zein using several chromatographic procedures. The peptides have the following amino acid sequences and taste thresholds (muM/ml): Ala-Ile-Ala (50-100), Ala-Ala-Leu (50-100), Gly-Ala-Leu (50-100), Leu-Glu-Leu (2.5-3.5), Leu-Glu-Leu (8-12), Leu-Val-Leu (1.5-2.5), Leu-Pro-Phe-Asn-Gln-Leu (0.1-0.2), Leu-Pro-Phe-Ser-Gln-Leu (0.1-0.2). The threshold for bitter taste decreases with increasing number of hydrophobic side chains (greater than or equal to C3) in the peptide. It increases in the presence of hydrophilic side chains to their polarity.


Structure-taste relationship of some sweet-tasting dipeptide esters. The sweetness of dipeptide esters, structurally related to L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester (Aspartame), depends among other things on molecular size. This paper describes a method for predicting whether a dipeptide ester is sweet or not with the aid of atomic models. The method is based on the determination of the size, length and shape of the side chain (R) of the amino-acid ester attached to L-aspartic acid. We measured the side chains of 28 dipeptide esters, 13 of which were synthesized and evaluated for sweetness in our laboratory. Data of the other esters were taken from the literature. Twentyone dipeptide esters were sweet; the size and length of the side chains could be correlated with the degree of sweetness. An ester is sweet provided the length of the side chain (R) is between 4.8 and 8.8 A, and its size greater than or equal to 29 A; as for shape of R in sweet esters, there were two maxima in space filling at about 2 and 4 A or about 3 and 5 A from the asymmetric carbon atom.


[Incidence of caries in the Canton Waadt (Vaud) after the change from fluoride tablets to fluoridization of salt]. This report shows results of a survey on dental caries in the Canton of Vaud in the years 1970 and 1974. In this canton fluoridation was carried out by means of fluoride tablets distributed at school until 1969/70 and in subsequent years by adding 250 mg F/kg fluoride to domestic salt. For comparison, results from adjoining and other cantons are also presented. In 1970 the 3 communities in the Canton of Vaud (Moudon, Grandson and Vevey) showed a remarkably low overall caries level due to the distribution of fluoride tablets, supplemented in Grandson with regular brushings with fluoride solution. When the fluoride tablets were discontinued in 1968/70 and fluoridated domestic salt containing 250 mg F/kg NaCl was introduced, caries incidence reached an even lower level. In these 3 communities caries prevalence fell to the lowest level reached, so far, by means of preventive measures in Bettlach (Canton of Solothurn, toothbrushing with fluoride solutions 6 times per year combined with information, fluoride tablets on every school day, and in addition consumption of table salt fluoridated at a suboptimal level of 90 ppm). The children in the control communities Romont (Canton of Fribourg), St-Aubin (Canton of Neuchâtel) and Châtel-St-Denis (Canton of Fribourg) also showed decreases of caries levels from 1970 to 1974. This decrease can be attributed to the distribution of fluoride tablets started at the schools of this community in the late sixties. Caries incidence in the age spans 8 to 12 and 10 to 14 years was estimated. Children from the Canton of Vaud where fluoridated table salt was practically the only preventive measure showed a smaller DMF increase than those from the cantons Fribourg and Neuchâtel. By means of a method combining DMF means of various age groups it was possible to obtain sufficiently large numbers of children for a study of the caries prevalence in each community. All communities showed a decrease of caries levels. In the Canton of Vaud this reduction started at a lower initial level and in 1974 reached consistently lower values than those of the control communities of the cantons of Fribourg and Neuchâtel.


[Status of dental preventive efforts in Switzerland]. Regarding schools, the first endeavours of preventive dentistry based on the results of modern scientific results were made in the early fifties in the Canton of St. Gall. Great efforts have been made since then and it is impossible to keep track of all activities. At the schools it is the teachers on one hand and specialized or lay auxiliary personnel on the other who organize and perform supervised toothbrushing exercises with fluorides. In Switzerland there are now some 30 full-time positions for auxiliaries charged with preventive measures at Kindergarten or school. An estimate of the population reached by the various methods of prevention is presented. The costs of prevention are but a small fraction of the cost of conservative treatment. In the majority of the private dental offices prevention is part of the activity, but with varying intensity. As to public clinics, the preventive programm run by the Volkszahnklinik Basel is most advanced. It is important that prevention is introduced in all regions of Switzerland and that it reaches the children of all ages. The future depends strongly on the availability of auxiliary personnel working at the schools and in the dental offices.


[Success of preventive dentistry in Switzerland]. Water fluoridation was introduced in Basle in 1962. Caries prevalence (DMFS) ten years after fluoridation was, depending on age, 47 percent to 77 percent lower than before fluoridation. The percentage of pupils entering school with caries free deciduous and permanent teeth increased from 6.7 percent in 1961 to 35.3 percent in 1974. Fluoride tablets (0.5-1.0 mg F) distributed at school approximately 200 times a year were highly effective in inhibiting caries. Mean DMFS caries reductions were about 47 percent. Supervised toothbrushing exercises with concentrated fluoride solutions or rinsing tablets 6 times a year combined with repeated information decreased the caries incidence by approximately 50 percent. Caries reductions in anterior teeth were about 80 percent. The supervised toothbrushing was beneficial to the deciduous teeth and the gingiva. Fluoride tablet distribution combined with supervised fluoride toothbrushing yielded higher reductions.


[Results of a survey on periodontal prevention carried out in a test population in Bern]. In 1974 the authors carried out an inquiry about knowledge and behavior concerning periodontal prevention. Two-hundred persons from Berne and surroundings sampled by a random procedure were interviewed. It appeared that knowledge about the causes, consequences, prevention and therapy of periodontal disease was fragmentary. Accordingly prophylactic efforts of the interviewed persons were not very systematic. Often people believed in the effect of special remedies such as mouth-wash and special tooth-paste. They did not know that a perfect technique of oral hygiene is the basic requirement for periodontal prevention. It appeared that the advising function of the dentists was partially insufficient. Patients suffering from bleeding gums had not received adequate information regarding the seriousness of their situation, or they were referred to the special remedies mentioned in figure 3. Instruction of a perfect oral hygiene technique was therefore neglected.


[Urinary excretion of fluorides in inhabitants of the Canton Vaud who consume fluoridated salt as compared with that of the inhabitants of neighboring cantons who consume nonfluoridated salt]. In the Swiss canton of Vaud (512000 inhabitants) the salt available for human consumption has been fluoridated since 1969 by adding 250 mg F- per kg of salt. The urinary excretion of fluoride has been investigated in large samples of the population in 1970 and in 1974. The present study reports the results of the 1974 study, in which the urinary fluoride excretion of persons living in the canton of Vaud was compared to that of a smaller sample of people living in small townships across the border of the canton, in which neither edible salt nor water are fluoridated. The concentration of fluoride in 444 single samples of urine from adult persons living in the canton of Vaud was 1.06 +/- 0.03 mg/l, in 40 subjects living two townships across the border 0.62 +/- 0.06 mg/l. The excretion of fluoride per 24 hrs has been evaluated by measuring simultaneously the creatinine concentration in the urine samples under the assumption of constant creatinine and fluoride excretion within 24 hour periods. The calculated fluoride excretion in 366 subjects living in the canton of Vaud was 1.14 +/- 0.03 mg/24 hrs, that of 40 subjects living outside of the canton 0.60 +/- 0.05 mg/24 hrs when the figure inserted for the excretion of creatinine within 24 hours was taken from a study of Rowe [9]. A few data reported suggest that the mean excretion of creatinine in the urine of normal subjects living in Switzerland was only 67% of that measured in the U.S. by Rowe. Total fluoride excretions calculated under this assumption were 0.76 +/- 0.02 mg/24 hrs for persons living in Vaud vs. 0.40 +/- 0.04 mg/24 hrs in the subjects living outside of Vaud. The concentrations of fluoride found in the urine of the adult subjects of the present study did not differ significantly from those found in school children aged 7-15 living in the same communities. Concentrations of fluoride in urine appear to have increased since 1970 in subjects living in the canton of Vaud. This fact may indicate that a steady state equality between intake and urinary excretion of fluoride had not yet been reached in 1970. In 366 urine samples of subjects living in Vaud in 1974, the concentration of fluoride in urine could be represented as a linear regression on the concentration of creatinine. The slope of this regression was smaller than unity indicating an enhanced fluoride excretion at higher rates of urine flow and a depressed excretion at low rates of urine flow. The occurrence of diurnal variations in the urinary excretion of fluoride or of creatinine could not be excluded in the present study. The urinary excretion of fluoride exceeded 2.5 mg/24 hr in approximately 2% of the subjects living in the canton of Vaud but was smaller than 0.8 mg/24 hr in approximately 18%. It was concluded that fluoridation of salt at the level indicated should be an effective measure for the prevention of dental caries. It was, furthermore, concluded that salt fluoridation at the level indicated does not present any risk of toxicity.


[Periodontal disease and prevention in children and adolescents]. Clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that: 1. Bacterial plaque which accumulates around the teeth is responsible for chronic periodontal inflammation. From adolescence on, this inflammation is almost universal. 2. Gingivitis prepares the periodontitis, which is characterized by a migration of the epithelial attachment, pocket formation and progressive bone loss. 3. Calculus is formed by plaque calcification. Its rough surface allows bacterial retention and proliferation in contact with the epithelial covering. 4. The mechanisms of host resistance to parasitic plaque are mostly unknown. This resistance is variable and seems to decrease with age. 5. Periodontal disease in children and adolescents is a real problem in preventive medicine, because of its immediate or remote consequences on tooth loss. Thanks to fluoride, the prevention of dental caries is quite effective; the prevention of periodontal disease is on the contrary much more difficult. Mechanical removal of plaque is tedious and must be done again and again; however, it is not logical to separate prevention of caries from that of periodontal disease. Information of the public at large on oral health is of utmost importance, as well as a good cooperation of the teachers in preventive programs for schoolchildren. Every health department or service should try to apply the following measures: -Permanent employments for "school dental nurses" should be created, on a part-time or full-time basis. They should take care of the organisation and supervision of oral health programs. -In each school dental service, a dentist should be responsible for teaching the theoretical and practical aspects of periodontal prevention. -Caries reduction obtained by fluorides is no excuse to reduce the "treatment staff". This staff should be devoted to prevention at large and to refreshing courses. In a young population with regular supervision, prevention of periodontal disease can meet with considerable success. Initial periodontal disease is reversible: it is possible to avoid the degradation of gingivitis in progressive periodontitis, and this helps maintaining dental and periodontal health throughout life.


[Prevention and early treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis]. The presence of dental plaque leading to gingivitis is regarded as the most important cause of periodontitis which develops from gingivitis. The destruction of the periodontal tissues may be accelerated by functional disorders of the masticatory apparatus. Chemical prevention and therapy is still in its initial stages with their future being uncertain. On the other hand, prevention and therapy of periodontitis are possible by hygienic measures. The mechanical removal of dental plaque and calculus is the best way of prevention and early treatment. This is shown with the aid of a clinical study.


[Epidemiological survey of various odonto- and parodontopathies among adolescents aged 16-20 years living in Geneva: first results]. The present paper reports some initial numerical results referring to an epidemiological study of the main dental and periodontal diseases prevalent in late adolescence. The study itself is based on a random sample survey covering the Geneva adolescent population, ages 16 to 20, and takin in 1970-1972. 1392, i.e. 13% of the population. The first part depicts the overall dental health status of the mentioned sample in terms of DMF teeth counts (total recording) as depending on age groups (16-17, 17-18, 18-19 and 19-20 years), occupation (students, apprentices, and young labourers) and sex (boys, girls). The second part is devoted more specifically to the lasting effects ascribable to fluorine prophylaxis: variations of the DMF tooth count, as a function of age, for adolescents protected by fluoride intake in comparison with adolescents not so protected; estimated effect, due to fluoridation, on severity of carious lesions, again in relation with age. It is concluded that regular intake of fluoride tablets decreases overall caries frequency and slows down development of more severe forms.


[Behaviour of synovial blood vessels in semi--thin sections in progressive chronic polyarthritis]. The synovial blood vessels of 17 patients with clinically definite rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were studied histologically and ultramicroscopically. No differences between seronegative and seropositive RA subjects were found. The abnormalities observed concerned mainly the endothelial cells, which showed changes varying in degree from swelling to fibroblastic transformation. The destruction of endothelial cells seemed to be linked with a positive test for C-reactive protein as a consequence of an acute relapse. Areas of cellular infiltration and partial homogenization were found in the tunica media of the vessel wall. There was a striking hyperemia of the capillaries and venules.


Transport time for salicylates from blood to joint fluid-- a test of histopathology of the synovial membrane. Samples of blood and joint fluid, from sixty patients who had taken Bufferin, were examined for salicylates. The earliest appreance of salicylates occurred in blood between 3 and 13 minutes after intake, and in joint fluid between 11 and 36 minutes. The individual time lapse from the first appearance of salicylates in blood to that in joint fluid, designated the transport time, varied presumably with the changes of the synovial membrane caused by diseases; it was small in synovitis following trauma or focal infection and in osteoarthritis of short duration; it was greater in osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis of longer duration, and it showed great variations in immediate traumatic synovitis. Salicylates attained maximum concentration in joint fluid 100 to 155 minutes after intake. Similar factors as above probably accounted for the differences in these time intervals.


[Joint scintigraphy using 99mTc pyrophosphate]. Joint scintigraphy was performed in 85 patients suffering from a variety of rheumatic diseases, using a gamma camera and line scanner. Tc-pyrophosphate was the radio nuclide employed; it accumulates selectively in the juxta-articular parts of the bone. The method provides an objective demonstration of inflammatory and degenerative rheumatic joint changes. More over scintigraphic changes can be demonstrated in joint disease which is too early to be clinically apparant or before there are any corresponding changes in serological parameters. The method is useful both in the localisation and staging of disease, in the evaluation of treatment and as an objective control of clinical skills.


[Enzyme studies on the pathogenesis of experimental mycoplasma arthritis]. Biochemical studies of rats with mycoplasma arthritis revealed new findings in pathogenesis and pathophysiology. Preliminary examinations showed that mycoplasmas release specific endonucleases and exonucleases. In evaluating the isoenzymes of the lactate dehydrogenases, malate dehydrogenases as well as of the esterases, which provide certain parallels with human rheumatoid arthritis we made several new observations. Thus a mycoplasma infection which resembles rheumatoid arthritis, leads to an inhibition of the DNA repair. We were able to proof this enzymekinetically and autoradiographically. We also observed for the first time the occurrence of DNA antibodies in this type of arthritis. It is possible that there is a relation between inhibition of DNA repair and the occurrence of DNA antibodies. Thus mycoplasma infection seems to influence DNA metabolism. There are interesting parallels concerning DNA antibodies and DNA-repair between experimental micoplasma arthritis and human systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.


[Significance of ear lobe biopsy in the diagnosis of angiopathies inflammatory-rheumatic diseases]. Biopsy of the ear lobule in inflammatory rheumatic and collagen diseases is not a suitable method for detecting vascular involvement. A perivascular cell infiltration van often be found but it non-specific. The intensity of cell infiltration did not correlate with duration, severity or activity of the disease process.


The interaction of stars and magnetic field in the orientation system of night migrating birds. I. Autumn experiments with European Warblers (gen. Sylvia). In the autumn migration periods of 1971, 1972, and 1973 the orientation behavior in registration cages of Sylvia communis, S. borin and S. cantillans was analyzed to find out what relative importance the birds assign to information from the stars and from the magnetic field for direction finding. We obtained the following results: 1. Under clear sky in the local earth's magnetic field (Control) the warblers showed directional preferences that corresponded to their expected migratory direction based on ringing recoveries. 2. When magnetic north was turned by 120 degrees to ESE (Test), all three species preferred on clear nights their migratory direction according to the magnetic field, in spite of contradicting information from the stars. 3. In a partly compensated magnetic field, which could not be used for orientation any more, no significant directional preference could be observed, although the stars were visible. Dividing these data into two groups according to whether the birds had been tested in Control or Test previously, we found a tendency for the directions selected here to depend upon the north direction of the magnetic field during the bird's previous tests. From this and from the observation that the concentration of orientation behavior decreases in the absence of stars, we derive the following orientational model: The magnetic field provides the primary directional information for migrating birds. The stars do not contain directional information in themselves, but they can become secondary sources of orientation when information from the magnetic field has been transferred to them previously. The importance of this mechanism lies in making it easier for the birds to maintain their migratory direction. The ecological advantages of such a system are discussed and critically compared to the other models of star orientation.


Communication in the tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus barrisii) and a survey of auditory communication in the marsupialia. The female-male interaction system of the Tasmanian devil, Sarcophilus barrisii, was analyzed in captivity. A description of visual, chemical, tactile, and auditory signals was prepared based on an encounter series. The vocalizations of the Tasmanian devil were classified and described with respect to their probable function. The vocalizations of other marsupials are compared with those of the Tasmanian devil. Four basic syllable types are defined. Although the auditory signals of marsupials are generally low in intensity and easily overlooked by an investigator, it would appear that they exhibit a complexity equivalent to the calls of many Eutherian mammals. Marsupial vocalizations are not necessarily always produced in specific contexts, but the four basic vocalization types are related to at least four different functions and reflect adaptations for conveying information in several widely differing contexts. The problems of establishing homologies among vocalizations are discussed.


[Selection of strays from the group by predators during prey]. Equally sated three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) that had a free view of stray individuals and of a swarm of Daphnia magna preferentially preyed upon the strays; the resulting risk to the strays increased with swarm density (a leads to c leads to e in Fig. 1). This applied also to situations with constant swarm numbers but varied density (a leads to b, d leads to e). The results from two experiments with equal swarm density (b/e, c/d) suggest selection to be affected also by swarm number and/or volume.


The role of thermal energy absorbed in unit time on thermal lesion of the skin. (Preliminary report). The relationship between tissue injury caused by thermal effects and the parameters of heat transmission was studied in animal experiments. The injury caused by identical quantities of heat depends on the duration of the thermal effect. In case of identical periods of exposure the lesion of the tissue is determined by the quantity of radiated heat (intensity of radiation) absorbed by the skin.


[Successful conservative treatment of an abscess located in the minor pelvis and perforating the bladder]. A 10 months old, painful retrovesical abscess was cured by conservative means. Instead of the risky operation to eliminate the abscess cavity communicating with the urinary bladder, treatment with Lugol's solution through a catheter was performed. After 15 treatment a full cure was achieved.


[Bladder stimulation of patients with spinal injuries]. Electric stimulation of the bladder through eight electrodes was performed in 7 patients suffering from innervation disturbances of various origin. In one case the device had to be removed because of endocarditis and sepsis after 8 months. In 6 cases the result was satisfactory as the patients were capable of emptying their bladder without catheterization. By abolishing vesico-ureteral reflux, recurrent pyelonephritis is eliminated, consequently life expectancy greatly improves. The method is believed to be suitable mainly in cases of peripheral bladder paralysis. In cases of central paralysis, the fibrosis of the bladder neck calls for additional interventions such as transurethral resection.


[Damage and regeneration of the skeletal muscles in the presence of foreign bodies]. Studies of experimental muscle regeneration revealed that certain constituents of talc are actively damaging the regeneration of muscle tissue and produce characteristic reaction of the tuberculoid type. Bio-SorbR which contains starch and has been marketed for a similar use affects regeneration only as a foreign body. The elimination of talc from surgical practice and its substitution by some neutral material is recommended.


Diabetic retinopathy, duration of diabetes and risk factors of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The present study, concerning 145 insulin-dependent diabetics showed positive relationships between the severity of retinal disease on the one hand, and body weight, blood pressure, and serum cholesterol level on the other. These relationships remain significant when the duration of the clinical diabetes and the age of the patient are taken into account. Two interpretations are suggested. They are not incompatible. In diabetic subjects, either the increase in blood pressure and serum cholesterol level causes an aggravation of diabetic retinopathy or there exists a common factor at the origin of retinal lesions and of an increase in risk of cardiovascular disease through atherosclerosis.


Influence of anesthesia on the rate of insulin biosynthesis. Rates of insulin and total pancreatic protein biosynthesis were investigated by means of 1-14C-glycine under thiopental-induced deep anesthesia and thalamonal-induced neuroleptanalgesia. Blood levels of insulin and 11-OCS were also investigated. It was shown that both anesthetics - thalamonal and thiopental - inhibited rates of insulin synthesis and decrease its secretion. Only thiopental reduced the 11-OCS blood level. Changes of rate of insulin synthesis were observed on the background of inhibition of biosynthesis of total pancreatic proteins. But despite the absence of specific changes in the rate of insulin biosynthesis as compared to total pancreatic protein synthesis under both types of anesthesia, deep thiopental-induced anesthesia resulted in more severe changes in the biosynthesis of hormone and total proteins neuroleptanalgesia, since the latter induced only slight inhibition of rate of its synthesis.


Effect of propranolol on some adrenaline- and insulin-induced metabolic changes in man. The effect of propranolol on adrenaline- and insulin-induced changes in blood glucose pyruvate, lactate, phosphorus and potassium were examined in 29 apparently healthy volunteers. A slight, but significant reduction in adrenaline-induced hyperglycaemia was noted, along with suppression of both the increase in pyruvate and lactate and the decrease in phosphorus and potassium attributable to this catecholamine. There was no significant change in the blood glucose curve after insulin whereas insulin-induced increases in pyruvate and lactate were reduced by 44% +/- 17.7 (mean +/- SEM) and 78% +/- 5.4 respectively, and the fall in phosphorus by 48% +/- 3.1; the decrease in potassium, however, was not significantly modified. These findings suggest that changes in plasma pyruvate, lactate and inorganic phosphates induced by insulin, and regarded as espressions of its peripheral metabolism, are greatly dependent on the beta-adrenergic effect of the endogenous catecholamines released during the time when blood glucose values are low.


A correlative study on the occurrence of retinopathy and nephropathy in sucrose-fed diabetic rats. The correlation of the occurrence of renal and retinal microangiopathy was studied in 139 genetically selected sucrose-fed diabetic rats. It was found that in 13% of the animals both retinal and renal lesions developed; in 20% only diabetic retinopathy and in 10% diffuse glomerulosclerosis alone was observed.


Decrease in whole blood viscosity in alloxan diabetic rabbits. Whole blood and plasma viscosity of normal and alloxan diabetic rabbits were measured by means of cone in cone viscosimeters at different shear rates. Blood behaves like a non-Newtonian fluid, i.e. the viscosity is shear rate-dependent whereas plasma viscosity remains constant over the shear rate range employed, i.e. behaves like a Newtonian fluid. Blood viscosity was found to be statistically significantly decreased in the alloxan diabetic group in comparison to the control group. The decrease is attributed to a slight decrease in mean hematocrit and mean plasma viscosity of the diabetic animals. The possible mechanisms of these changes are discussed.


[Physiology of bile secretion].

[Physiology of bile secretion]. Canalicular bile secreted by the hepatocyte consists of at least two fractions: one is initiated by active transport of bile acids, the other is due to active transport of inorganic ions. Bilirubin and other organic anions, organic cations, and neutral compounds are secreted into the canalicular bile as well as lecithin and cholesterol. Subsequently the biliary tree, the gallbladder, and the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids have an effect on bile formation. Choleresis induced by drugs may be due to a direct osmotic effect of the compound secreted in bile or to an increase of the bile acid independent fraction of bile flow. Cholestasis frequently is caused by inhibition of the bile acid independent fraction. Studies on micellar solubility of cholesterol have led to new concepts concerning formation of cholesterol gallstones and their dissolution with chenodeoxycholic-acid therapy.


[Effects of diet on bile secretion].

[Effects of diet on bile secretion]. The effects of delayed gastric emptying or bran supplement to diet on the lithogenicity of bile were reviewed and their possible role in the prevention of recurrence of cholesterol gallstones after dissolution by chenodeoxycholic acid was discussed.


The small intestine in diabetes mellitus. Correlation of clinical phenomena to histomorphometric findings in peroral biopsy material. Biopsy material obtained from the first portion of the jejunum of 56 unselected diabetics and 21 normal controls was examined under the electron microscope (in 8 cases) or with a method of stereologic morphometry. Controls were found to have a villous volume (VVi) of 50.19 +/- 10.1%. All values below 40% were interpreted as an expression of deterioration of the mucous membrane. Altogether 12.5% of the diabetics showed total atrophy, and 20% had significant reduction of VVi. These changes did not correlate with intestinal disorders or other signs of diabetes. In total atrophy histochemical changes could be demonstrated. Microangiopathy was not observed in the intestinal mucosa.


[Apexcardiography in coronary disease].

[Apexcardiography in coronary disease]. The value of the apex cardiogram (AKG) for identification of diastolic extrasounds is established. The present study attempts to correlate the so called a-wave index and the systolic portion of the AKG-curve with the results of left heart catheterisation in 15 patients with coronary heart disease (KHK). The position of point U (the lowest point between the first and the second systolic wave) during mechanical systole and the relative height of the second systolic wave do not correlate with LVEDP, dp/dt and the a-wave index. In contrast to a group of 22 healthy persons the a-wave index of the KHK-patients was significantly higher (17.5% vs. 5.7% on average) and the position of point U was significantly earlier (42.5% vs. 62% on average, of the duration of mechanical systole).


[Attempts at the introduction of a clinico-immunological therapy for malignant tumors]. The basis for an immunoncological therapy was investigated by culture of lymphocytes incubated with autologous tumor-antigen. The methods of isolation and cultivation are adapted to conditions of reinfusion. The effectiveness of tumor-aggressive action is demonstrated as transformation to lymphoblasts (indirect action) and tumor-cytolysis (direct action) in mixed lymphocyte-tumorcell culture.


Serum insulin, insulin antibodies and insulin requirement in the first period of insulin treatment in non-insulin resistant diabetics. Twelve insulin-sensitive diabetics were studied for 200 days after the initiation of mixed beef-pork NPH insulin. Normalization of the fasting blood glucose was not accompanied by any elevation in the pre-treatment fasting immunoreactive insulin level. Insulin antibodies appeared in 2 patients on the second week of insulin treatment, in 6 others within 87 days. In 4 patients no antibodies were found 200 days after the start of insulin. The appearance of antibodies was accompanied in two patients by a decrease in insulin requirement, in others there was no change. When antibodies were present, the total maximum insulin binding capacity was 4 to 12 U/l, but the total insulin constituted only 3 to 36% of the binding capacity. Insulin wastage caused by the destruction of the immune complexes was calculated to be 0.35 to 5.6 U/die only, and this explains the negligible effect of insulin antibodies on insulin requirement in non-resistant patients.


[Location and somatotopic organization of visceromotor, motor and sensory columns of the cranial nerves]. The author describes the origins and endings of sensory, motor and visceromotor fibers of cranial nerves, special senses excluded. He gives cytological and cytochemical characteristics of neurons and relates experimental and pathological data. References are mostly limited to recent papers. Somatotopic organization is particularly stressed. Description of the somatic sensory or trigeminal column is treated at length by reason of the superposition of two somatotopic organizations: dermatomes and "onion skin". The visceral sensory column includes the caudal part of the nucleus of the solitary fasiciculus. It has a rather diffuse representation of carotid and aortic baro- and chemoceptors and of vagal afferents from the lungs. After a short account of the generally well known somatic motor columns, the author discusses the problem of the visceromotor columns where the representation of the viscera and sometimes even the localization of motor neurons are doubtful.


[Topical and differential diagnosis of facial paralysis. Study based on 1000 cases]. The functional and clinical investigation of peripheral facial paralysis is discussed by the authors in brief. On ground of the scheme of Sturm the relativity of topographical diagnosis is demonstrated. According to their frequency in a statistic of 1009 cases the different causes of facial palsy are discussed as well as the problems involved in differential diagnosis.


Morphological characteristics of neonatal obstructive jaundice. In cases of neonatal obstructive jaundice, liver biopsy material has been studied electronmicroscopically. In bile duct atresia, morphologic changes are extensive and they develop early. The severity of destruction is related to the quantity of accumulated bile deposits. Hypoxia due to the disturbance of microcirculation plays an important part in the damage. In cases of inspissated bile syndrome, the changes are less severe and they prove reversible.


Penicillin clearance in diabetic children. The clearance of crystalline penicillin G was found to be significantly higher in children in the early period of diabetes than in age-matched healthy controls. The therapeutic importance of the finding is emphasized.


The predictive value of glucose utilization rate in neonatal hypoglycaemia of small-for-gestational-age infants. The glucose utilization constant K was determined in 50 small-for-gestational-age neonates. In 11 cases the K value was higher than 2.0, and 5 out of these babies developed asymptomatic hypoglycaemia. In 39 infants the K value was under 2.0, and except in one false negative instance, no hypoglycaemia was observed. The results suggest that early determination of the glucose disappearance rate is useful in predicting the probability of hypoglycaemia.


Metabolic changes in newborn infants following surgical operations. I. Blood levels of glucose, plasma free fatty acids, alpha-amino nitrogen, plasma amino acid ratio and urea nitrogen. In 29 newborn infants subjected to surgery for congenital anomalies, the blood glucose, free fatty acid (FFA), amino acid, alpha-amino nitrogen and blood urea levels were observed from the first to the seventh postoperative days. The blood glucose level showed moderate changes in the postoperative period, while FFA decreased significantly. The combined concentration of non-essential amino acids (glycine + glutamine + serine + taurine) and that of essential amino acids (leucine + isoleucine + valine + methionine), their quotient (Whitehead's ratio), as well as the alpha-amino nitrogen level indicated dynamic changes in the postoperative period. The gradual return of blood urea to the preoperative level is explained by the diminished breakdown and the improved excretory function of the kidney following surgical procedures.


Metabolic changes in newborn infants following surgical operations. II. Acid-base status of whole blood and erythrocytes, blood lactate and electrolytes. In 29 newborn infants subjected to surgery for congenital anomalies, the extracellular and intracellular acid-base status, and the sodium, potassium and plasma lactate levels were observed from the second to the seventh postoperative days. During anaesthesia and surgery metabolic acidosis developed but improved spontaneously by the end of the first postoperative day. The metabolic acidosis gradually developing during the postoperative phase was due probably to hypoalimentation. The plasma lactate level decreased on the first days, then increased slightly; the level showed no statistically significant correlation with the acid-base equilibrium. In the postoperative period the sodium level decreased gradually in the plasma while in the erythrocytes it was relatively constant. The diminished plasma sodium/potasium ratio was mainly a result of the decreased plasma sodium concentration.