The ability of blood plasma from drinking water vaccinated turkeys to protect against a lethal challenge of Pasteurella multocida. Turkeys were vaccinated against fowl cholera with the Clemson University avirulent Pasteurella multocida vaccine strain (C.U. strain), using the drinking water route. Plasma was harvested from these turkeys, which later withstood challenge with a highly virulent P-1059 strain of P. multocida. Baby chicks were injected between the thigh and abdominal cavity with the immune plasma and simultaneously, into the breast muscle, with the same highly virulent strain referred to in the foregoing. The results demonstrated that plasma from turkeys vaccinated by the drinking water route protected baby chicks against intramuscular challenge with a virulent strain of P. multocida and suggest that a favorable systemic immunologic response did occur. This is in contrast to the Minnesota M-2283 strain which, reportedly, produces a localized protection only, when used as a drinking water vaccine.


Effect of forced molting on quantity and quality of semen in turkey breeder males as influenced by diet. Broad Breasted White turkey males were induced to molt by imposing periods of nonstimulatory light and short periods of water and feed deprival starting at 54 weeks of age. Birds kept under 8 or 10 hours of light per day began to molt within 3 weeks, and most had terminated semen production within 4 weeks. When returned to stimulatory light, the birds began to produce semen within 4 weeks and reached peak production within 10 weeks. However, this level of production was lower than the original level attained as young birds. The recycled males produced approximately 20 percent more semen than the males kept under constant stimulatory light, and the semen from the recycled males contained 1 to 2 billion additional sperm per ml. The percentage of normal sperm decreased with increase in age of birds irrespective of light treatment. A skip-a-day-per-week feeding schedule imposed on all males from 54 to 78 weeks of age had no appreciable effect on body weight or efficiency of feed utilization. Also, imposition of feed and water restrictions had no apparent effect on early termination or recovery of semen production.


Effect of herring oil on body weight, comb size and gonadal development in the chick. A diet with 20% herring oil (0.55% linoleate) gave comparable growth responses to a diet containing 20% corn oil (12.07% linoleate) in 4-week-old male and female White Leghorn chicks. No additive or synergistic growth responses were noted in female chicks fed a mixture of herring oil and corn oil. Decreased testes size and changes in testicular histology occurred in young cockerels fed herring oil. Comb responses were dissimilar in male and female chicks fed fish oil.


Specific response of chicken intestine to calcium influence on D-galactose absorption. A comparison was made of the D-galactose uptake by rat, hamster and chicken intestine utilizing calcium-containing or calcium-free incubation fluid. The Wilson-Wiseman technique was employed. Qualitative differences were found in the response of the different intestines to calcium requirements as regards sugar active transport. No significant differences were observed in oxygen consumption.


Characterization and growth-depressing activity for chickens of several natural phenolic materials. Several natural phenolic materials were analyzed for gallic acid and were further characterized for dialyzability and flavonoid content. These materials were added to a diet and fed to broiler strain chicks for 4 weeks. The depression in growth caused by these phenolic materials was compared with that of tannic acid on a gallic acid equivalency basis. The activities relative to tannic acid (congruent to 100) were as follows: methyl gallate, 195; valonia, 117; wattle, 114; allepo tannic acid, 107; eucalyptus, 105, myrobalan, 98; tara crystals, 76; mangrove, 72; quebracho, 39; gallic acid, and ellagic acid, O. It was impossible to clearly relate the growth depressing activity of the materials to hydrolyzability or relative content of smaller phenols.


Internal structure of the chicken erythrocyte after exposure to hydrogen plasma as seen with SEM. Smears were made of either whole chicken blood or washed blood cells. The smears were exposed to hydrogen plasma for varying periods of time and examined with the scanning electron microscope. The pitted surface of the nucleus was clearly seen along with the granular cytoplasm. After prolonged etching nuclear material appeared homogeneous and smooth.


The behavior of chickens following embryonic treatment with testosterone propionate. This study was designed to investigate an initial response and the flocking behavior of chicks treated embryonically with testosterone propionate (TP). The high (1.28 gm. %) and low (0.32 gm. %) levels of TP interfered with the response of these chicks to a specific stimulus. However, only the high level TP depressed the flocking response. TP administered prior to day 13 of embryonic development will depress sexual behavior in the chicken. These data suggest that TP influences a variety of behavioral patterns in the chicken.


[The effect of epiphysectomy on the concentration of aldosterone, corticosterone and transcortin in the peripheral blood]. Experiments were conducted on female Wistar rats, weighing 120-130 g. Epiphysis in rats was removed 3 weeks before the principal experiment. Aldosterone was determined in the peripheral blood by the radioimmunological method, corticosteron--spectrophotometrically, binding capacity of transcortin, free, bound and sum-total 11-OCS--by the method of gel filtration in biogel. In intact rats at the phase of metaestrus aldosterone content in the peripheral blood constituted 45.2 +/- 4.62 ng/100 ml. Epiphysectomy produced a reduction of aldosterone content (32.4 +/- 3.69 ng/100 ml) and an elevation of corticosterone level and of transcortin binding capacity in the female rats.


[Potassium metabolism in diabetes mellitus]. A method of radiometry of the whole body in the low-background chamber was applied to the study of the content of total potassium (by K40) in the organism of 67 patients suffering from diabetes mellitus of various severity and in 76 healthy individuals. there was revealed a marked reduction of the total potassium level in diabetics. The more severe the diabetes--the greater the potassium deficiency. Total potassium level had a tendency to normalization after treatment with insulin, potassium salts and vitamins.


[Radioimmunologic determination of aldosterone in the peripheral blood of diabetic patients]. The paper treats of the specific, accurate, highly sensitive, economic radioimmunological method of aldosterone determination. The authors used commercial reagent kits for the radioimmunological determination of aldosterone, this facilitating the work of investigators, and permitting to examine many samples for a short period of time. The method can be suggested for both the experimental and clinical practice.


[Hyperaldosteronism in thyrotoxicosis].

[Hyperaldosteronism in thyrotoxicosis]. In 30 patients with a moderately severe and severe form of thyrotoxicosis a study was made of urinary aldosterone excretion following acid hydrolysis, by thin-layer chromatography. During decompensation the majority of the patients displayed an increased aldosterone excretion. Medicinal compesation of the disease did no lead to normalization of the mineralocorticoid function of the adrenal glands, whereas aldosterone excretion remained high in many of the patients. To ascertain the mechanisms of increase of aldosterone excretion in thyrotoxicosis a correlative analysis was carried out of associations between the aldosterone excretion and the circulating blood and plasma volume, potassium blood plasma content, catecholamine and 17-oxycorticoid excretion. On the basis of the results obtained and literature data it was supposed that intensified beta-adrenergic activity of the nervous system and increased catecholamine production participated in increase in the mineralocorticoid function of the adrenal glands during thyrotoxicosis.


[Plasma testosterone levels of diabetic men]. The authors present the results of clinico-sexological study in 57 patients suffering from diabetes and in 12 apparently healthy men in whom blood plasma testosterone content was studied. The patients with diabetes displayed a significant reduction in the testosterone concentration with the advance of the patients' age, increased duration and severity of diabetes, and also its inadequate compensation during the disease in the presence of microangiopathy and peripheral neuropathy. The role of diabetic metabolic, vascular and innervational disturbances in reduction of the androgenic function of the testes in diabetics was demonstrated. In patients with the late stages of progressive impotence the level of testosterone was sharply decreased. This fall was less pronounced in the patients at the stage of the initial disturbances. It was revealed that the androgenic insufficiency of the testes was of great significance in the complicated pathogenesis of impotence in diabetes. Recommendations are presented on the prophylaxis of androgenic insufficiency of the testes in diabetes, and on the use of the testosterone preparations in the general complex therapy of impotence of men suffering from diabetes.


[Changes in the electrolyte composition of the blood of humans and animals under the influence of thyrocalcitonin]. A study was made of the effect of the thyroid hormone thyrocalcitonin (TCT) on the electrolyte composition of the plasma and erythrocytes. In healthy persons and in the patients with various diseases of the cardiovascular system administration of 1 Unit of TCT per 1 kg of weight led to a significant reduction of the total plasma calcium and its diffusible fraction and also of plasma sodium. A course treatment with the hormone led to the enhancement of the hypocalciemic effect. In dogs administration of 10 Units of TCT per 1 kg of weight produced a more pronounced hypocalciemic effect. The rest of blood electrolytes displayed no significant changes.


[Gonadotropic hormone excretion in men with hypogonadism and its dynamics under the influence of exogenous testosterone]. The work is a clinico-laboratory study and and treats of the results of determination of gonadotropine excretion before and after the administration of testosterone to the patients with various forms of hypogonadism. The prevailing effect of testosterone on the excretion of the gonadotropic hormones could be blocking, stimulating or neutral depending on the clinical variant of hypogonadism. Thus, a change of sensitivity of the central link in the hypophysis-gonad system to the action of the peripheral hormones could apparently be of definite significance in the pathogenesis of hypogonadism; this should be taken into consideration in the elaboration of rational schemes of its therapy.


[Excretion of hypophyseal luteinizing hormone, dopamine and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid during the sexual cycle]. A study was made of the excretion of the luteinizing hormone (LH) of the hypophysis and of the 5-oxyindolacetic acid in the course of 18 clinically-normal menstrual cycles. There proved to be a significant correlative association in the excretion of dophamine and of the LH in the middle of the cycle. As a rule, the peak of dophamine excretion coincided with the peak of the LH excretion. No statistically significant association between the 5-oxyindolacetic acid excretion and the LH excretion was found in the course of the cycle.


[Glucose tolerance disorders in pregnant women]. The authors present the results of study of 582 women with the use of glucose tolerance test. Disturbances of this tolerance were revealed in 11.3% of cases, and latent and manifest diabetes--in 4%. The detected disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism were independent of the periods of pregnancy and parity. They were much greater in the older women with normal weight. The authors consider prophylactic dietetic measures to be expedient in women with disturbed glucose tolerance.


[Quantitative and qualitative changes in the sex chromatin of diabetic women of different ages]. There was revealed a statistically significant reduction in the frequency of occurrence of sex chromatine (SC) in the patients (female) suffering from diabetes mellitus aged from 15 to 65 years before the treatment in comparison with the healthy women. After the compensation of the carbohydrate metabolism there was noted its further reduction in the patients aged from 25 to 65 years. In 15-65-year women who contracted diabetes mellitus there was an increase in the circular form of the SC bodies looking like thickenings of the nuclear membrane; SC bodies of round shape enlarged as well in women aged from 25 to 65 years. Oval, triangular and semicircular forms decreased in all the age groups. After the compensation of the carbohydrate metabolism the content of the SC bodies of various shapes remained the same as at the beginning of the disease without returning to the normal level. The area of the SC bodies enlargement was statistically significant in women who fell ill with diabetes mellitus.


[The effect of synthetic derivatives of testosterone on the activity of acid proteinases, DNA-ase and RNA-ase in the liver and serum of female rats]. A study was made of the effect of a 30-day administration of various doses of testosterone-propionate and methyltestosterone to intact female rats given a ration rich in protein on the activity of acid DNA-ase, RNA-ase and proteinases in the liver and the blood serum. The ration itself, rich in proteins, increased the activity of acid RNA in the liver of rats and gave a significant seasonal variations in the activity of RNA-ase and proteinases. Administration of the same doses (1 mg daily) of testosterone-propionate or methyltestosterone produced a different effect on the nuclease metabolism. In the first case there was observed a reduction of the RNA-ase activity, and in the second--of the DNA-ase. Possibly this partially explained a different extent of anabolic properties of these two androgens. An increase in the dose of methyltestosterone to 5 mg, on the contrary, produced activation of RNA-ase in the liver and the blood serum, which could promote the manifestation of catabolic properties.


[The effect of hydrocortisone on the synthesis of lipids from different precursors]. A study was made of the intensity of lipid synthesis in the liver and adipose tissue of rats following a single administration of hydrocortisone (3, 6, 24 and 48 hours) from various labeled precursors. In the liver the hormone stimulated the synthesis of lipids from the acetate-I-C14 and lactate 1,3-C14 but blocked the lipogenesis from glycerine-1,2-C14 and glucose-1-c14. In the adipose tissue hydrocortisone intensified the lipid synthesis from glucose-1-C14 only and inhibited the lipid synthesis from other precursors. The action mechanism of the hormone on the lipogenesis is considered in association with the primary intensification of gluconeogenesis in the liver.


[Progestin and estrogen concentrations during the reproduction of sables]. Competitive protein-binding analysis and radioimmune method was applied to the study of the content of progestins and estrogens in the blood and urine in female sables of different age (kept in cages) at periods corresponding to the estrus, diapause and true pregnancy. Sables with a normal course of pregnancy displayed a regular increase in the progestin level already at the period of diapause, although relatively small in value. The period of true pregnancy is attended by a pronounced elevation of the progestine level, with a maximum in the middle of pregnancy. The estrogen level falls at the period of diapause (as compared with the estrus period). The period of true pregnancy is accompanied by a marked elevation of the estrogen level several days before labour, with a fall after them. Examination of the estrogen and progestin levels in sables can aid in the establishment of pregnancy and differentiation of its normal course from the pathological one.


[The state of heat exchange and thermoregulation in animals castrated at different ages]. A change of the indices of thermal metabolism and of thermoregulation in male rats with reduction of the gonad function in the aging animals and following castration at different age was studied by means of calorimetric unit permitting to record total heat emission, "direct" heat production, and also the body temperature of the animals in experiments of any duration. Functional "cold" test was used to assess the adaptive possibilities of thermoregulation. Old unoperated males showed a reduction of background values of heat exchange, diminished increase of the indices of heat production and lesser rate of body temperature restoration following the "cold" test. Castration of old animals produced no effect on already changed indices of heat exchange. But in the young castrated males there was a reduction of the initial values of heat emission and of heat production, and a change of thermoregulation reaction in response to chilling. Administration of testosterone-propionate to young castrated animals led to a partial restoration of the indices under study.


[Results of electroencephalographic and familial studies in Wilson's disease]. The results of electroencephalographic and familial studies of 31 Wilson's disease patients coming from 26 kindreds are presented. Prior to treatment, 8 patients showed pathological conditions, while 9 and 11 patients showed borderline and normal conditions, respectively, it having not been possible to determine electroencephalographic conditions characteristic of Wilson's disease and find any relationships between the intensity of E.E.G. changes and the clinical picture and stage of development of the disease, respectively. Under penicillamine treatment, there was observed a tendency toward normalization of pathological conditions rather than deterioration of normal E.E.G. findings. So far as familial studies are concerned, the authors report the results obtained for 9 fathers, 19 mothers, and 24 siblings from a total of 21 kindreds; what is remarkable in this connection is the comparatively small percentage of normal E.E.G. findings for healthy siblings. It was only in one single kindred that it was possible to observe similarities between E.E.G. variations of individual family members.


[Amnestic episodes. (Isolated episodes of confusion with amnesia, amnesic ictus, transient global amnesia)]. The author, by giving an outline of one particular case as well as a survey of the relevant literature on transient global amnesia, describes the characteristic clinical picture that is characterized by a sudden loss of what is known as the short-time memory, which usually lasts for several hours, as well as by retrograde amnesia which sometimes dates back to many years. The condition gradually fades away within a few hours or during a night's sleep, and what remains is lack or loss of memory for the episodic period or sometimes retrograde amnesia. Relapses were not observed in the majority of patients. The disease usually develops in people in their sixth to eighth decades of life. The cause of the disease is not yet fully understood. Accordingly, it is justified to use such terms as autochthonous or cryptogenic amnestic episodes. The disease is also discussed from a differential diagnosis point of view.


[Electroencephalographic findings in vertebro-basilar circulation disorders]. The method of electroencephalography was used for examining 86 patients with clinical signs of vertebrobasilar blood supply disorders and bulbopontine localization of ischemic phenomena. Light to moderate diffuse alterations were found which manifested themselves, on the one hand, in a reduction in tension with a tendency toward desynchronization of the alpha rhythm and, on the other, in interspersed theta waves, sometimes with temporal localization. The determination of the location of the vascular process depends upon both the clinical syndrome and the performance of function tests during the electroencephalographic examination. The disproportion between the excellent organization of the bioelectrical activity and the severe clinical picture is sufficient reason to consider vascular damages to the pontobulbar portion of the brain stem.


[Different responses in word association tests in normotensive and hypertensive subjects]. Activation of latent associations by word stimuli of different emotional relevance as well as the accompanying electrophysiological tracings reveal statistically significantly characteristics in juvenile essential (arterial) hypertensives as compared to normotensives. This applies to the verbal reactions as well as to the electrophysical concomitants. Under additional cognitive demands both groups achieve better performance. This rise is significantly greater, however for hypertensives than for normotensives. Our special recording system permitted exact phonographic registration of the verbal stimulus and reaction as well as of the PGR.


[Rearing behavior of parents of schizophrenic juveniles]. The educational behavior of parents of schizophrenic juveniles with both favorable and unfavorable prognoses is discussed. The study reported by the author is based upon a three-factor concept of education, which comprises conflictive, laudatory, and fundamental situations. Consequently, parents of schizophrenic juveniles with either favorable or unfavorable prognoses will show different reactions in conflictive, laudatory, fundamental, and abnormal situations. (Statistical evidence of the results was obtained through the use of quality levels.) The results and their possible interpretations are discussed, and recommendations for behavioral or familial therapy, respectively, are given.


Blockade of amine depletion by nisoxetine in comparison to other uptake inhibitors. Nisoxetine, 3-(o-methoxyphenoxy)-3-phenyl-N-methyl-propyl-amine, is a new inhibitor of norepinephrine uptake. Nisoxetine antagonized 6-hydroxydopamine-induced depletion of norepinephrine in mouse heart with an ED50 of 0.9 mg/kg but had no effect on p-chloroamphetamine-induced depletion of serotonin in mouse brain at doses up to 32 mg/kg. Using the antagonism of these depleting agents to estimate inhibition of uptake into noradrenergic and serotoninergic neurons, we compared nisoxetine to several known amine uptake inhibitors. The order of effectiveness in antagonizing 6-hydroxydopamine action was protriptyline greater than desmethylimipramine greater than EXP 561 greater than nisoxetine greater than nortriptyline greater than chlorpheniramine greater than desmethylchlorimipramine greater than imipramine greater than doxepin greater than amitriptyline greater than chlorimipramine, with fluoxetine and its N-demethylated metabolite (103947) having no effect. In blocking p-chloroamphetamine, the order of effectiveness was EXP 561 greater than fluoxetine greater than 103947 greater than chlorpheniramine greater than chlorimipramine, with desmethylchlorimipramine, protriptyline, and nortriptyline having marginal effects and nisoxetine and the other drugs no effect at the highest dose tested, 32 mg/kg. Nisoxetine is thus one of the more potent and specific inhibitors of norepinephrine uptake, differing remarkably from fluoxetine to which it is related structurally.


Protective action of sex hormones against mast cell depletion and other deleterious effects of magnesium deprivation. Dietary magnesium deficiency has been more damaging to the mast cells in females than in males. Estradiol at a dose of 1.5 mg per week for 4 weeks and testosterone at a dose of 3 mg per week in the males have resulted in lesser mast cell depletion in the magnesium-deficient animals. Large doses of testosterone have also improved in the condition of the skin, decreased the severity of other magnesium deprivation symptoms such as nephrocalcinosis, bone hyperplasia and nervous manifestations in the males. Testosterone has had no beneficial effect on mast cells of the females but the large dose has protected the kidney against nephrocalcinosis. Estrogen administration has aggrevated the production of kidney stones in the females.


[Effect of irradiation and heat on the agglutination and mitogenic capacity of phytohemagglutinins]. The authors studied the effect of ionizing radiation on hemaglutinating and mitogenic activity of phytohemaglutinis (PHA) in solution. 10 Krad (electron beam) are needed for the destruction of 50% of the aglutinating capacity. The mitogenic effect is more resistent to irradiation (70 Krad for 50% inactivation) maybe because both effects are due to different molecules. Changes were also followed by electrophoresis in polyacrylamida. The resistence to irradiation showed to be exponential function of the concentration of PHA in solution.


[Value of proteins of the flour of cheastnuts of Pará]. The authors have made some chemical analysis of the deffated Brazil-nut flour. The average protein content was about 46% and aminogram showed that all the essential aminoacids were present in the protein, and a high concentration of total sulfur aminoacids was found. The chemical analysis also showed an utilization of about 54% for the Brazil-nut flour and 55% for the casein. However, the biological value of the casein prepared diet was higher than that prepared with Brazil-nut flour.


[Synthetic organic dyes in liquid solutions. Contribution to the study of their stability]. The A. studied the influence of storage conditions in regard to ten certified dyes contained in liquid pharmaceutical preparations: aqueous solution, simple and modified syrups and elixir, buffered at pH 2.0; 4.0; 6.0; 7.0 AND 8.0. The diffuse light is the most important factor in the alteration of colorants in liquid dosage forms. The room temperature had influence over the following dyes: amaranth, F.D. & C. Red n; degrees 1; F;D. & C. Blue n. degrees 2; F.D. & C. Red n. degrees 4 and F.D. & C. Violet n. degrees 1.


[Chemical study of rosemary of Campinas. II]. The flavone glycoside isolated from the leaves of Holocalyx glaziovii Taub. (syn. Holocalyx balansae Mich.) gave on hydrolysis kaempferol and rhamnose. The glycoside was identified by chemical, spectroscopic and chromatographic methods as kaempferol-3,7-dirhamnoside (kaempferitrin).


[Ratio of heat loss in a polyphasic system]. The relative thermal differential (dtr) is proposed as a predictor for the thermal loss rate in a polyphasic system. The dtr enables one to predict the thermophoric element temperature in a closed system. Simplied grids for the calculation of linear equations and their correlation coefficients are presented.


[Identification of aminoacidopathies using thin layer chromatography of urine]. The aminoacidopathies, inborn errors of aminoacids metabolism, are rare pathological conditions that have mental retardation as secondarty cause. Using TLC with cellulose as adsorvent and using specific solvents and developer, we can obtain early diagnosis of a great number of those biochemical deviations. The authors based themselves in Ersser's publications to effect this research, now in its initial phase. The author's principal aim is to transform the semi-quantitative method into a quantitative one and to early diagnose the metabolic errors of aminoacids.


[Correlation between non-empirical electronic parameters and the therapeutic action of aminoacridine]. By using the omega technique of molecular orbital calculations, certain non-empirical electronic parameters (charge density, HOMO and LEMO) in acridine, five monoaminoacridines, and five diaminoacridines were determined. High correlations were found between: a) pKalpha and electron density at the ring nitrogen; b) pKalpha and LEMO; c) electron density at the ring nigrogen and bacteriostatic index; d) LEMO and bacteriostatic index. However, no good correlation was seen between HOMO and both pKalpha and bacteriostatic index. It was also found that LEMO values in acridines allow them to act as good electron acceptors in a charge-transfer process.


[Comparative study of methods for the determination of urea in biological fluids]. The authors have studied comparatively two methods to determine urea in relationship to the reference technic that utilizes urease. The authors observed that the diacetylmonoxime with thiosemicarbazide method showed the most similar results in comparison with the reference technic.


[Acid hydrolysis of mandioca].

[Acid hydrolysis of mandioca]. The influence of time of hydrolysis, pression of the process, ratio of mass of flour and volume and concentration of the acid solution was studied in the hydrolytic processes for Cassava flour. The aim was to obtain fermentable sugars, and the results were submitted to variance analysis.


[Influence of proles vegetable enzymes on meat]. Studies on the enzymatic digestion of food proteins are being carried out "in vitro" in order to prepare protein hydrolysates to be added to specific diet. The digested product is lyophilized to preserve its solubility characteristics.


[Carnol as a stabilizer of the emulsion I system]. "Carnol" insaponificable fraction from "chalky" carnauba wax, was tested for its emulsified system estabilizing abilities. The required HLB of test system, made up of mineral oil, water, polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate and sorbitam monooleate, was 9.0. 1% of carnol (w/v) formed A/O emulsions (HLB less than or equal to 7.0), 2% carnol estabilized O/A emulsions with the required HLB of the test system and 3% carnol estabilized both types of emulsions.


[Preparation of immunoglobulins G,A,M (IgGAM) for therapeutic use. Conditions for enrichment in IgA or in IgM]. Antibodies directed against viruses and bacteria are not equally distributed among the main classes of immunoglobulins, e.g. IgG, IgA and IgM. It has been found that IgM is mostly concerned with certain antibacterial activities (Salmonella, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas) and IgA with high antibody titers for poliomyelitis virus I whereas antibody activities against many viruses such as influenza and measles virus occur preferentially in the IgG population. Furthermore, isolated immunoglobulin deficiency syndromes are actually well known. In the light of these findings, new concepts of immunotherapy have developed. Massive i.v. IgG-therapy is already widely used in congenital and acquired severe hypogammaglobulinemia. Preparations enriched in IgA and IgM are needed to complete the immunotherapeutical possibilities. Such a fraction called IgGAM has already been prepared in our Institute. Fraction III obtained during large scale fractionation is used as starting material and caprylic acid for the precipitation of most proteins other than the immunoglobulins present in fraction III. The immunoglobulin concentrate is finally obtained by ethanol precipitation of the caprylic acid supernatant. The present study is concerned with various modifications of the initial technique in order to obtain fractions more specially enriched in IgA or in IgM. In some cases the standard IgGAM fraction has been submitted to a further fractionation step, such as adsorption of IgG on DEAE-cellulose or precipitation of certain immunoglobulins achieved by Rivanol or by lowering the salt concentration. In other trials the fractionation procedure starting from fraction III has been modified. Rivanol has been used as a precipitating agent for the subfractionation of fraction III. It is well known that IgG is soluble in the presence of Rivanol. This technique was thus used in order to obtain preparations enriched mainly in IgM and IgA. The precipitate obtained after the addition of Rivanol was dissociated by NaCl and the solution further subfractionated by caprylic acid. In a similar way PEG was associated with the caprylic acid precipitation step. PEG precipitates proteins mainly in function of their molecular weight. However, the enrichment of IgM of the final fraction did not exceed 32% and much IgM was lost under the experimental conditions. It proved easiest to suspend fraction III in distilled water leaving IgM in the precipitate; it is dissolved and the solution submitted to a slightly modified caprylic acid precipitation step. This fraction contains 35-40% IgM, few (2-6%) IgA and about 50% IgG whereas an IgA (35%) enriched fraction is obtained when fraction III is solubilized with acetate at pH 6.2 and then submitted to precipitation by caprylic acid under slightly modified conditions as compared with our standard IgGAM. Thus, simple modifications of the standard procedure allow to prepare fractions enriched more specially in IgM or IgA. Fractions poor or almost devoid of IgG can also be obtained...


[Application of a reversed passive hemagglutination test to the detection of HBs antigen]. In this report we present an evaluation of the sensitivity, specificity and ability to detect HBs Ag carriers of a new reversed passive hemagglutination test, using immunochemically purified chimpanzee anti HBs bound to stabilized human erythrocytes. The method was shown to have a sensitivity equal (within one two fold dilution) to that of the Ausria I 125 ratio immuno assay, and in a double blind comparison detected essentially the same number of Hbs Ag containing specimens among volunteer blood donors. The method therefore provides an economical method for the third generation testing of blood donors. The methodology which has been described incorporates a definitive specificity test in which serum drawn before and after immunization of chimpanzees with purified HBs Ag is compared for its ability to neutralize the hemagglutination reaction. The use of serum from the same animal for this purpose avoids the theoretical possibility that antiglobulin antibodies directed at subclass determinants such as Gm of Inv could be differentially inhibited due to possible subclass differences in the blocking sera employed. A reliable test for specificity of HBs Ag screening results is essential to avoid false notification of donors that they are carriers of hepatitis B virus.


[Investigation on fats of Virola surinamenis; I. Glyceride and acid composition, and chemical nature of various unsaponificable components]. The A.A. report a work done on the influence of hypophysectomy on fluoride metabolism by the bones of rats. The results obtained indicate that hypophysectomy enhances F concentration in bones and teeth. The F retained is function of the growth of the animals and depends on the type of mineralization of the colagen matrix. All these effects seem related to the thyroid hypofunction subsequent to the pituitary removal.


[Detection of HBs with latex tests].

[Detection of HBs with latex tests]. Since 1971, several inert particles have been tested and proposed for HBs antigen screening, none of them being really used in routine. An evaluation is realized and presented, pointing out the main characteristics and the practical problems. We report our experience on two types of latex, simultaneously conducted through manual techniques and through Groupamatic 360 equipments. For one of them, TG Antigex, sensitivity and specificity are very satisfying and several batches are presently tested in order to quantify the reproducibility and stability features of the reagent.


[Experimentation in Lille with the passive hemagglutination test for the detection of Australia antigen. Comparison with other methods]. Among 5347 blood donors sera, the reverse passive hemagglutination test (RPH) enabled to detect 3,55% of HB ag (whereas 2,43% by EID). On the other hand, among 180 patients, the rate of positive reactions was observed to be the same for both techniques, which must be attributed to the presence of higher titer antigens. In the two series all positive reactions found by RPH method were also tested by RIA; this enabled to eliminate a great number (18% and 27%) of false positive reactions, which remain the disadvantage of the method. It must be also noticed that the complement fixation reaction gave the same results as the RIA.


[Detection of HBs antigen by hemagglutination inhibition tests; experiment with standardization]. The standarization of a reagent for automated detection of HBs antigen by an inhibition of the hemagglutination reaction is described. Its advantages are its specificity, its fast efficiency, its low cost. But, its handling is delicate and requires a good technicity.


[Comparative study of three commerical preparations for the detection of Australia antigen]. 2,944 sera from blood donors (420 of them being new donors) were tested in four techniques: Counterelectrophoresis (CEP) and three commercial tests: Ausria II, Auscell and Hepanosticon. Over 10 HBs Ag detected by RIA, 8 were evidenced by the Auscell test and 6 by the Hepanosticon Test. False positive results (approximately 3%) represent a disadvantage to the reverse hemagglutination method; this rate increased considerably in a group of 386 patients sera also tested. The authors conclude that the results obtained with the reverse hemagglutination technique are nearing those of RIA.


[Evaluation of various radioimmunological techniques for the detection of antigen HBs]. The different radioimmunoassay technics routinely used for detection of HBs Antigen are Ausria I, Ausria II, RIA and CLB/RIA. Classification of these techniques either liquid or solide phase, is realized by nature of the tracer (Antigen or Antibody radioiodinated). The sensitivity and the specificity are presented as the comparison with other reactions. There is no significative difference on 1089 tested samples between Ausria I and RIA. The percentage of false positives in RIA or CLB/RIA reactions is 1.5% when the incubation is at 20 degrees C and 1% when it is at 37 degrees C. Advantages, disadvantages, cost prices, automation and possibility of computer treatment are discussed. The utilization of reference sera is proposed and the problem of the utilization en France of the radioactive products is approached.


[Detection of Australia antigen in Grenoble]. The reverse passive hemaggluatination (RPH) technique for HB ag. detection is presently used at the Grenoble Blood Center; this technique has been slightly modified with a view to lowering the cost. A microtechnique which gave preliminary good results, is also described.


[Fetomaternal hemorrhages and their importance in perinatal pathology]. Transplacental haemorrhage is usually studied as an aspect of Rh immunisation prevention. In this paper the authors emphasize importance of this syndrome in noe-natology, as massive transplacental blood loss may result in severe foetal and neo-natal anemia or even lead to intra uterine death. Different technics for evidencing the presence of fetal cells in the mother's circulation are first discussed, the acid elution method appearing to be the easiest and fastest one. Results of nearly 40.000 Kleihauer's tests screening routinely performed in Paris at the time of delivery, are reported. The much higher frequency of very large transplacental haemorrhage is pointed out in cases of stillbirth. On a practical point of view, routine testing for transplacental haemorrhage finds its major interest in Rh prevention. A formula is proposed by one of the authors to calculate the most accurate dose of passive anti-D antibody in relation with quantitation of fetal haemorrhage. At last the autors attempt a new approach to the problem of neonatal unexplained anemias. Two different types of fetal bleeding are postulated, either chronic associated with haematologic signs of regeneration, or massive at the time of delivery without haematologic symptomatology. These condtions could lead to two different clinical pictures, either hydropsfetalis when chronic, or hypovolemic schock when massive and immediate.


[Automatic pre-transfusion serology].

[Automatic pre-transfusion serology]. This paper describes an automated apparatus combining Rosenfield's and Lalezari's antibody screening and identification basic technics. PVP bromelin and low ionic strength acid polybren channels are used; agglutinates are decanded; the remaining cells are hemolyzed and the optical density is then measured through a colorimeter and recorded on a chart; speed is of 40 samples an hour. This machine was also used for irregular antibody screening and identification. Sensitivity is shown to be equal to that of manual technics for ABO, Lewis, Lutheran as well as K, S, M, Kpb, Xga, U and Vel antibodies detection. Nevertheless, a much greater sensitivity is achieved (titers 3 to 10 times higher) than by manual technics for Rh, -k, S, Fya antibodies detection. Polybren channel is suitable for anti-Rh, Duffy, I and M (human detection; bromelin channel however, has a greater sensitivity for other specificities. Anti-M and anti-N sera from rabbits were shown to be non specific when using this machine. Over almost 15 000 sera tested, no antibody (detected by manual techniques) escaped the automated screening. This antibody detection machine was applied to compatibility tests prior to transfusion. (21 480 units were tested. aimed to be transfused to 5 611 patients). A third, PVP without bromelin, was set in parallel in order not to let escape any anti-M, even a weak one. The sera distributor was slaved to the cells distributor so that the whole procedure was automated. Furthermore, each serum was tested against red cells to be transfused, but also against the patient's own red cells to be transfused, but also against the patient's own red cells and against two selected red cells panels, so as to ensure irregular antibody detection at the same time. Using this machine, 3 to 4% of the cell samples were rejected, i.e. more than with usual techniques. All manually detected antibodies were identified, but also some others, which showed only weak reactions by classical techniques. Total results can be obtained within 20 to 30 minutes, which is quite rapid, compared to techniques using for example antiglobulin tests.


[Preservation of erythrocytes by freezing in liquid nitrogen. Use of an I.B.M. blood regenerator]. The freezing of blood permits preservation of red cells over long periods of time, several months or years. Leucocyte and platelet contamination of red cell concentrates to be frozen is negligible. The amount of the various red cell metabolites (2.3 D.P.G., A.T.P., etc.) is maintained. Washing of thawed red cells removes the remaining plasma proteins and cell residues. The freezing method employed is that of Row et al. The protector used is 28% glycerol added in equal amounts to red cell concentrate to be frozen. The blood bag is kept in liquid nitrogen at -- 196 degrees C. Thawing takes place in a water bath at 45 degrees C. Wash solution is the IBM Blood regenerator. The solution used for removing glycerol is hypertonic natrium chloride. The following parameters have been investigated: --hemoglobin level; --osmotic fragility;  --the amount of 2.3 D.P.G.; --residual glycerol after thawing; and clearance of leucocytes and platelets following each step of the protocol. Preliminary data regarding these features and therapeutic efficiency of processed blood are satisfactory.


[Blood microfiltration. Scanning electron microscopic study of the aggregates retained by a transfusion filter made of polyurethane foam]. Preliminary studies of the transfusion filter Bentley PF 127, a polyfilter type with a graded serie of diameters of microfenestration are reported. Dog blood has been used in all instances of the trial phase. Variations of the hematological factors as well as biochemical disparities have been examined and all deposits were assessed by means of scanning electron microscope. Amounts of deposits increased with the blood age. As far as banked dog blood develops less microaggregates during storage than human blood, the SEM pictures reported are a plea for banked blood microfiltration in any transfusion to human beings. The deposits which were trapped in the polyurethane foam, had previously passed through a screen filter with pore size slightly wider than the standard one (250 microns instead of 170 microns). Unfortunately the possibility of thrombus formation is serious as far as banked blood is rather fragile, and due to a slow flow rate, the time of blood contact with the filter is enough to allow thrombus development. However, the amounts of clots greatly increased with the age of the blood. The importance of filtration by adsorption was not very visible. The future of such a depth filter is questionable: should we prefer a transfusion screen filter with small pore size, the efficiently of which is determined by its pore size, and which traps the microaggregates by mechanical retention, or a depth filter which is supposed to retain the microaggregates regard less of the size but which could be very easily thrombus invaded and does not allow a suffisant blood flow rate for patients needing large amounts of blood in period of initial resuscitation? The debate is open but we should recognize that a screen filter with small pore size is widely used in the hospitals.


Antibodies against the human pancreas in acute and chronic liver disease. Different immunofluorescence reactions in the exocrine pancreas were observed with the sera of patients with acute and chronic liver disease. In the majority of cases the antibody, frequently associated with the antibody against the smooth muscle, reacted with diffuse organ-specific antigens in the cytoplasm; in one patient it reacted with fibrillar antigens in the cells, while in another case the fluorescence was due to antibodies against non-specific ribosomal antigens. The occurrence, nature and significance of these reactions are discussed.


Conformational changes in chromatin from density inhibited WI-38 fibroblasts stimulated to proliferate. Quiescent confluent monolayers of WI-38 human diploid fibroblasts can be stimulated to proliferate by replacing the old medium with fresh medium plus 10% serum. Circular dichroism spectra of chromatin from stimulated cells between 2 and 10 hrs after stimulation show an increase in positive ellipticity maxima and a blue shift in the 250-300 nm region. These changes are reversed when the stimulated cells enter DNA synthesis (which, in the present conditions, begins to increase at 12-15 hrs and reaches a peak at 20 hrs). The circular dichroism changes occurring 3 hrs after stimulation have been studied in greater detail. They consist in a 35% (average) increase in positive ellipticity and a blue shift in the 250-300 nm region. Changes in the gamma less than 244 nm region are less consistent. The differences between chromatins of stimulated and unstimulated cells are abolished when both chromatins are washed with 0.25 M NaC1. This procedure removes 10-12% of chromosomal proteins, which chromatograph with non-histone proteins. DNA, RNA and histones could not be detected in the 0.25 M NaC1 extract. In gel electrophoretic profiles of radioactively labelled chromosomal proteins from stimulated and unstimulated WI-38 cells there were no detectable differences between histones. The non-histone proteins of stimulated cells showed one radioactive peak which was increased above the level of non-histone proteins from control cells. These results show that structural changes occur in the chromatin of WI-38 cells stimulated to proliferate several hrs before the onset of DNA synthesis. The fact that differences in the chromatins can be abolished by washing with 0.25 M NaC1 could give a clue as to the mechanisms responsible for these structural changes.


Experimental determination of the operative parameters for a double antibody solid phase radioimmunoassay of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones in serum. The experimental parameters of a Double Antibody Solid Phase (DASP) radioimmunoassay (RIA) for the determination of serum luteinizing (LH) and follicle-stimulating (FSH) hormones, are described. The lowest detection limits can be fixed at about 20 pg LH and about 10 pg FSH. Evidence of parrallelism among the dose-response curves and the dilution curves of different sera is provided for FSH-RIA and for about 92% of the tested sera for LH-RIA. The antisera dilution curves are reported (final titres: (/160 - 10(3) for anti-LH and 1/40 - 10(3) for anti-FSH). The traditional cross-reaction study in buffer indicates that 5.38 and 46.8) muU TSH/ml mimic 1 ng LH/ml and 1 ng FSH/ml respectively. The regression-line equations of antigen recovery (f = found, e = expected) are: lH f = 0.94 LH e + 0.91 and FSH f = 1.05 FSH e + 0.17; the same equations when TSH is added become: LH f = 1.30 LH e + 1.46 and FSH f = 1.40 FSH e -- 0.37. It is concluded that LH-RIA is interfered by TSH over 8-10 muM TSH/ml and in function of TSH concentration; FSH-RIA is not interfered by TSH up to 4-5 ng FSH/ml; for higher FSH levels, TSH interferes according to a linear law (angular coefficient 1.40) and not in function of its concentration. LH and FSH levels throughout normal menstrual cycle in follicular phase, centre peak and luteal phase are: 3.14 +/- 1.16, 16.71 +/- 12.99, 2.31 +/- 1.04 ng LH/ml (mean +/- 2SD) and 3.57 +/- 0.95, 5.72 +/- 2.90, 2.57 +/- 0.80 ng FSH/ml (mean +/- 2SD) respectively. Finally, the within-assay coefficient of variation is 7.65% for LH-RIA and 3.16% for FSH-RIA.


[Homolateral and controlateral disturbances in the tactile discrimination of the hemispheric lesions]. Ten normal controls and 45 brain-damaged patients, affected by lesions of the right (N = 25) or of the left (N = 20) hemisphere were given a test of two points discrimination, in order to check the hypothesis of a different organization of the somesthetic function at the level of the dominant and of the minor hemisphere. Somatosensory thresholds were measured at the level of the back of the hands and of the back of the feet by means of a modified version of the Weber two-point aesthesiometer. When patients with lesions of the right and of the left hemisphere were compared the following results were obtained: --somatosensory thresholds were higher on the contralateral than on the ipsilateral side of the body in both groups of patients; --ipsilateral defects were found in about 20% of the brain-damaged patients, but no relationship was put in evidence between laterality of lesion and ipsilateral sensory defects.


[Neuropathological study of a case of progressive familial myoclonic epilepsy (author's transl)]. We previously reported (Europ, Neurol., 3, 347-364, 1970) on two clinical observations of progressive myoclonus epilepsy in the same family. Now, we complete the clinical study showing the neuropathological findings concerning one of the two patients who died at the age of twenty. Degenerative neuronal alterations were found involving the olivo-cerebello-rubral system and, in a minor degree, the brain stem and thalamic structures. No Lafora bodies were found. These pathological features make it possible to suggest a differentiation from a first group of progressive myoclonus epilepsy (Unverricht-Lundborg) and another group (with epileptic manifestations) of dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica (Ramsay Hunt). We agree with the suggestion of other authors that it is difficult to establish precise differentiations between these groups at neuropathological level. We think however that the distinction is still possible on the basis of the clinical picture. Our observations cupport the hypothesis that our patient is an "abiotrophic" case of Unverricth-Lundborg syndrome, as we previously had suggested on clinical and especially neurophysiological findings.


[Angioscintigraphy in the study of cerebrovascular accidents (author's transl)]. The Authors analyse the results of cerebral angioscintigraphy, performed with gamma camera on-line with a MED II system, in 158 cases of ischemic stroke, 13 cases of hemorragic stroke and 29 cases of cerebral neoplasm. 84 cases of ischemic stroke and all the cases of hemorragic stroke and neoplasm had contrast angiography. The dynamic study has provided additional information in 51.3% of the cases of ischemic stroke (63.7% when the internal carotid artery involvement alone is considered), in 84.6% of the cases of hemorragic stroke and in 58.6% of the neoplasm cases. The same information moreover is almost always able to clarify the cause of the positive rectilinear brain scans, frequently uncertain in strokes. In cases of ischemic stroke correlations are considered between angiography and angioscintigraphy. In particular the value of the method is discussed as a screening procedure for the detection of extra-cranial vascular disorders, amenable of surgical therapy. The authors conclude that angioscintigraphy is the method that, separately considered, provides most of the useful information in the diagnosis of stroke.


[Posterior partial rhizotomy and a new technique, posterior partial radiclotomy, in the treatment of tonic spasticity (author's transl)]. A comparison between G r o s' technique and a new personal technique, performed in 24 patients suffering from spastic syndromes, offers an opportunity for a reappraisal of Foerster's method of treating spasticity. The best results were obtained in patients with postural spastic disorders. Because the posterior partial rhizotomy did not result in a complete preservation of deep sensation in all patients operated on, it seems questionable whether this technique should be performed in spastic patients who are acquiring (or have already acquired) an independent standing position of deambulation. The technique which we propose, the posterior partial radiclotomy, did not cause any sensory disorder and appears of therapeutic value also and especially in patients suffering from spastic syndromes of moderate degree.


[Facial hemispasm and anomalies of the terminal portion of the vertebral artery (author's transl)]. A revision is suggested of the concept of "essential hemifacial spasm": 23 cases have been studied in whom the facial spasm was the only symptom present, while in 8 other cases in addition to the spasm of facial muscles other symptoms were noticed suggesting a pathology of the ponto-cerebellar angle. In many cases the symptom "spasm" and other concomitant symptoms are a direct consequence of an irritation due to compression on the nerve root (and/or on other nervous structures) owing to stretch of the distal tract of the vertebral artery or of the initial segment of the basilar artery. In five cases the AA. studied the vertebro-basilar circulation and in four patients they have actually found pathological elongations of the great vessels. In 18 other cases it was only possible to assume the presence of analogous alterations. The AA. suggest a study of the vertebro-basilar circulation in all the patients with "essential hemifacial spasm".


[Internal maxillary artery and collateral circulation in thrombosis of internal carotid artery (author's transl)]. From 53 cases of thrombosis of the internal carotid artery in the neck, collateral circulation through external carotid branches was angiographically demonstrated in 34 subjects. Anastomosis between external and intracranial circulations was seen to take place through three ways formed by internal maxillary, superficial temporal and facial arteries. The role of internal maxillary artery is emphasised as the most important pathway in the connections between the two circles.


[Surgical treatment of spasmodic torticollis. Physiopathological considerations and follow-up of 20 cases (author's transl)]. The standard surgical procedures on either peripheral or central nervous system in the treatment of primary spasmodic torticollis are: myotomy, neurotomy, cervical rhizotomy, cortical topectomy, prefrontal lobotomy and a variety of stereotaxic nucleotomies and tractotomies (globus pallidus, thalamus, subthalamus, midbrain). These procedures are briefly reviewed. Some newly proposed operations are than discussed (Svien's labyrinthine suppression and Mazar's interruption of cortico-capsular head-turning pathways). The former surgical intervention is based on physiological and experimental evidence than an altered influence of the reticular substance of the midbrain on the "central" vestibular circuits may be relevant in the genesis of primary spasmodic torticollis. The results are reported of 20 personal cases treated with various surgical procedures with a maximum follow-up of 14.4 years (mean = 6.7 years). It is concluded that at present the most effective and reliable treatment is bilateral anterior rhizotomy of C1-C3 combined with unilateral or bilateral neurotomy (or spinal rhizotomy) of the 11th cranial nerve. The results were rated clinically as useful in 66.6% of the 15 patients treated with this procedure.


[On the behaviour of the main immunoglobulin fractions in the CSF in the course of inflammatory conditions involving the CNS (AUTHOR'S TRANSL)]. Variations of the main immunoglobulin fractions in CSF were studied in 79 children with various inflammatory processes of CNS (purulent and viral meningitis, post-infectious meningoencephalitis, polyradiculoneuritis, etc). This study was extended to a group of non-inflammatory neurological diseases. Increased values of CSF immunoglobulins (especially IgG and IgA) were found in the group of purulent meningitis and in the group of post-infectious meningoencephalitis. IgM was detected in very few cases. Generally, a correlation was observed between highest concentrations of CSF immunoglobulins and degree of meningeal inflammatory response, even if this was a component of other neurological diseases. It is suggested that the rise of CSF IgG and IgA may depend upon the CSF-blood barrier damage, as it occurs in most inflammatory diseases studied. On the contrary, a production "in situ" of CNS could explain the presence of cerebrospinal IgM.


Occupational lead exposure in Finland. IV. The polyvinyl chloride plastic industry. One hundred and fifty-two workers from ten polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic factories were studied for lead exposure. Blood lead (Pb-B) concentration was measured for all the workers, urinary  delta-aminolevulinic acid (ala) for 130 workers, erythrocyte alpha-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ala-d) activity for 59 workers, and blood hemoglobin concentration or 93 workers. The median Pb-B for all the workers was 37 mug/100 ml, and the highest median found for one factory was 63 mug/100 ml. The highest single Pb-B value found was 126 mug/100 ml. The jobs with the heaviest lead exposure were those of mixing and weighing lead stearate powder. It is assumed that replacing the powder with a granule form of lead stearate will diminish the hazard of lead exposure in the future. Urinary ALA concentrations and erythrocyte ALA-D activities corresponded well with the Pb-B concentration, but the hemoglobin values did not show any relation to lead exposure. It is concluded that in the PVC plastic industry of Finland the risk of exposure to lead is high and regular health examinations should be performed.


Electrophysiological studies on rabbits in long-term exposure to carbon disulfide. Electroneuromyography was performed as part of a multidemensional study of experimental carbon disulfide poisoning of rabbits. Ten rabbits were exposed by inhalation of 750 ppm of carbon disulfide for 6 hours a day, 5 days a week for 10 weeks. A slowing of the motor conduction velocity of the sciatic nerve was clearly observable during the course of exposure. This slowing preceded clinical paralysis, which became severe in the hind limbs within 9 weeks. Although the amplitude of the motor response to stimulation diminished markedly towards the end of the exposure period, a response of about 2 mV was always elicitable. Definite fibrillations could be noted in the gastrocnemius muscle of the rabbits after exposure for 9 weeks. In the two rabbits allowed to recover, the fibrillations continued for up to 2 months after the cessation of the carbon disulfide exposure. As the paralysis was very severe, even though the nervous conductivity was rather well preserved, it was assumed that a lesion at the spinal cord level was combined with neuropathy. These experimental findings from rabbits agreed well with results from clinical studies of workers occupationally exposed to carbon disulfide. Some similarities, but also differences, were observable between neurophysiological findings in carbon disulfide and other forms of experimental toxic neuropathy.


Determination of toxic metals in blood by x-ray fluorescence spectrometry. An application of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for the analysis of various toxic metals (lead, cadmium, manganese, chromium, nickel, vanadium) in whole blood was studied, and two techniques for sample preparation (vacuum drying and nitric acid combustion) were compared. The acid combustion method appeared to be superior on the basis of the accuracy and precision of the determinations. The tungsten-target X-ray tube was suitable for determining manganese, nickel, and vanadium, the lowest limits of detection being 0.021 mug/ml, 0.035 mug/ml and 0.017 mug/ml, respectively, and the precisions being between 4.25 and 6.92%. The sensitivity and reproducibility for lead, cadmium, and chromium were unsatisfactory. A comparison between the recoveries of X-ray fluorescence and atomic absorption analyses demonstrated that the X-ray method is suitable for determining manganese, vandium, nickel, cadmium, and lead. The poor sensitivity of the X-ray method, however, restricts its practical use. For vandium the results obtained by X-ray fluorescence were superior to those measured by a colorimetric method. No significant differences were observed between the results of single component and multicomponent analyses at the metal concentrations usual in physiological and toxicological cases.


Charcoal sampling method for determining the concentration of styrene in air. The vapors of styrene (vinylbenzene) were trapped on charcoal in a glass tube. Air from the worker's breathing zone was sucked through the tube by a battery-operated, modified, MSA personal sampling pump. The sampler and pumping system were worn by the worker. The styrene were eluted with dimethyl formamide and estimated by gas chromatography. The range and sensitivity of the method when sampling with a flow rate of 0.2 1/min during 1 h were 5 to 1,500 ppm, and during 4 h they were 2 to 400 ppm. The recovery (accuracy) was over 90%. The precision for the method, in terms of relative standard deviation, was 8.4%.


Blood lead levels and erythrocyte delta-amino-levulinic acid dehydratase activity of selected population groups in Helsinki. The levels of lead in the blood of the adult general population in Helsinki were determined during the period May 1972-June 1973. The possibility of occupational exposure to lead was scrupulously excluded.As control groups rural population groups were sampled in the commune of Pertunmaa and the communes of Haapajärvi and Pyhäjärvi. The concentrations of air-suspended particulate lead were studied during 1 year in Helsinki and Pertunmaa; the population groups were sampled from the geographical vicinity of the sampling sites. Care was taken to ensure the accuracy and precision of the analytical methods at experienced laboratories. The annual mean concentration of lead in air in Helsinki ranged from 0.43 to 1.32 mug/m3. The corresponding mean at the rural sampling site (Pertunmaa) was 0.025 mug/m3. From an international standpoint, the Pb-B levels were low. The highest mean Pb-B value in groups of the general population occurred in the rural male group (12.3 mug/100 ml); and the lowest, in the female respondents of the Pertunmaa survey (7.9 mug/100 ml). A group comprising 86 male streetsweepers from Helsinki displayed a Pb-B mean value of 13.3 mug/100 ml, and 28 traffic-directing policemen displayed a mean of 13.5 mug/100 ml, a finding indicating a slight increase in lead absorption. No effect on the Pb-B levels of traffic alone was detectalbe within the general population; thus no statistically significant differences were found between downtown and rural or suburban Pb-B levels. The observation that the Pohjois-Haaga suburbanites disclosed higher Pb-B levels. The observation that the Pohjois-Haaga suburbanites disclosed higher Pb-B levels than did other suburbanites indicates that factors other than traffic should be borne in mind in the assessment of the effect of traffic on lead absorption. The delta-amino-levulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) assay proved useful and reliable in the discrimination between separate groups whose Pb-B levels differed to a small but measurable extent. The negative correlation between Pb-B and ALAD activity was found to prevail at a statistically significant level still at Pb-B levels of 10 mug/100 ml or lower.


Relationship between work environment and anamnestic health status. Use of predictors, indicators and indices for the evaluation of medical and environmental factors. Experience with computerized medical record systems in handling medical data in hospital and health screening environments has led to the development of a new approach to the evaluation of medical data. Predictors and indicators quantify the "information value" of medical data and can, theoretically, do so for all types of data. This paper describes the methodology and presents the results obtained when the technique was applied to the anamnestic data of the medical history and environmental data about the conditions in the work environment. Over 4,000 individuals who underwent multiphasic health screening were used as a data base for this study. From these 4,000 persons 3,164 were used for the calculation of anamnestic predictors and indicators and 1,013 for the environmental predictors and indicators. Anamnestic environmental indices were calculated upon 77 test individuals so as to correlate the association and dependence of the two indices.


Methods for measuring trichloroethanol and trichloroacetic acid in blood and urine after exposure to trichloroethylene. A description is given of procedures for the analysis of trichloroethanol, conjugated trichloroethanol, and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in blood and urine. The determination of TCA is effected by measuring its decarboxylation product chloroform. The methods depend on extraction with isooctane and subsequent analysis by gas chromatography.


Effects of a welding helmet and dust respirators on respiration at rest and during exercise. The influence of welders' protective devices on respiration at rest and during exercise was studied under laboratory conditions. During exercise the devices caused increased ventilation and increased arterial carbon dioxide tension. In the case of the welding helmet the increase was probably a consequence of increased dead space. It is concluded that the physiological affects on respiration are of minor importance in themselves, but they should be taken into account when the degree of exposure to welding fumes is evaluated.


Problems related to shift work. A field study of Swedish railroad workers with irregular work hours. A group of 132 engineers from the north of Sweden was included in the study. A subsample of about 50 subjects was selected for further laboratory investigations during a light and warm summer period and a dark and cold winter period. The mean for the hours of sleep noted on the sleep records was significantly lower for night work than for day work. The amount of sleep during night work was significantly less during the light period than during the dark period as was the amount of sleep during the day off. Body temperature measured during work followed a daytime pattern and had a low amplitude. Potassium excretion and the blood levels of cortisol displayed a stable circadian rhythm with a daytime pattern. Many environmental factors made the results of catecholamine data difficult to interpret. The frequency of reported peptic ulcers was higher in the engineer group than in some other groups.


Age-dependent changes in the morphology of brown adipose tissue in mice. The multocular fat cells of brown adipose tissue of the mouse show an age-dependent change to the unilocular fat cell type. This change starts immediately after birth and continues throughout life. This morphological change can be correlated with the animal's age-dependent decrease in tolerance to a cold environment.


Uptake of colloidal thorium dioxide by the mouse connective tissue mast cell. The ability of the mouse mast cell to phagocytize colloidal thorium dioxide, Thorotrast, was investigated employing the mouse connective tissue air pouch. The connective tissue mast cell of mouse was found to have limited capability to ingest the particulate Thorotrast in comparison to the rat peritoneal mast cell which ingested this material readily. Fibroblasts and macrophages in the connective tissue removed injected Thorotrast very rapidly in contrast to mast cells that demonstrated limited phagocytic capabilities. The tissue mast cell of the mouse, therefore, should not be considered a part of the reticuloendothelial system.


The measurement of iron in rat liver tissue and subcellular fractions using atomic absorption spectroscopy. To permit the measurement of iron in small amounts of liver tissue or subcellular fractions, a procedure based on wet ashing and atomic absorption spectroscopy has been developed. This procedure, which can detect iron down to a concentration of 0.1 mug/ml, has been used with ferric chloride and Jectofer (iron-citric acid-sorbitol complex) solutions as well as liver homogenates and subcellular fractions. Interference from constituents of liver tissue has not been observed and measurements on fractions appear to be quantitative. Individual determinations had a variability of approximately 10%.


Aflatoxin effects with liquid crystalline cholesteryl esters of duckling sera. An objective of this study was to determine indicator parameters of blood sera that are symptomatic for degenerative hepatic cholesterogenesis and lipid transformations induced with carcinogenic mycotoxins. A technique was developed for electrophoretic separation of liquid crystalline cholesteryl esters within beta lipoprotein fractions of duckling sera. These birefringent moieties decreased to 110 mug/mg low-density lipoprotein during 10-day bioassay periods for normal, nontoxin fed ducklings, but remained unchanged--179-189 mug/mg-for toxin-fed principals ingesting 0.988 mug aflatoxin/g feed throughout the bioassays. Their composition was principally cholesteryl esters with liquid crystalline characteristics determined by the oleate and linoleate content. Increased cholesterol levels--11.4% to 17.1% within sera of the nontoxin group--resulted in more frequent spherulitic mesoforms. The 0.9% to 1.8% taurochenodesoxycholate content within all sera samples induced stable cubic liquid crystalline forms. With polarized microscopy, cholesteric anisotrophs of sera were unique in composition and iridescent visage for each aflatoxin level regime. This specific dicroism was correlated with the corresponding hepatic histology.


Antimetabolites of pantothenic acid, ureido- and carbamoyl-derivatives. Pantothenic acid analogs have been synthesized that contain alkyl and/or arylureido and carbamate functions in the beta-alanyl portion of the amide moiety of the vitamin. The analogs are inhibitory to growth of lactic acid bacteria at concentrations as low as 0.6 mug/ml, and the inhibitions are competitively reversed by supplements of pantothenic acid. The carbamate derivatives are more toxic to growth of Lactobacillus plantarum 8014 and Pediococcus cerevisiae 8042 than the ureido analogs, and chloro-substitutents on the aryl group significantly increase the toxicity of the analogs.


Electromyographic activity of intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the human tongue. In healthy human subjects, electromyographic activities (EMG) were obtained from various tongue muscles. Main actions such as protrusion, retraction, and changing of the shape of the tongue can be correlated with the EMG activity of the respective muscles. Amongst all tongue muscles the paired genioglossus (protruder) is of greatest importance since it prevents a relapse of the tongue with occlusion of the airways and the attendant risk of suffocation. To counteract the relapse of the tongue, the tonic activity of the genioglossus is markedly increased in the supine position; this activity is further increased with cervical flexion. In addition, the genioglossi are activated during respiration, particularly during the inspiratory phase. These activity patterns reflect the important role the genioglossus plays in the mechanics of maintaining an open air passage to the lungs.


Serum parathyroid hormone: a double antibody radioimmunoassay. A radioimmunoassay for parathyroid hormone (PTH) using a double antibody system is described. Because of the immunolgoical heterogeneity of the hormone in human serum, the standard used has been serum from a patient with parathyroid carcinoma. With the use of the synthetic 34 amino acid N-terminal fragment of PTH, the anti-PTH antiserum was determined to react primarily with the N-terminal end of the molecule. PTH was detectable in the sera of 25% of normal subjects and elevated in 18 of 19 patients with parathyroid adenoma and carcinoma. Serum PTH levels were elevated in 3 of 5 patients with parathyroid hyperplasia.


Effects of exogenous ATP on short-circuit current and potential difference of the isolated frog skin. The addition of ATP (10(-3) M = final concentration) to the bathing medium of either side of the isolated frog skin resulted in parallel increases in potential difference and short-circuit current. Reductions in these electrical parameters induced by anaerobic conditions and sodium azide could be partially reversed by exogenous ATP. The response is apparently not mediated by cyclic adenylic acid, as it was not enhanced by theophylline. Ouabain failed to reduce rates of phosphate liberation induced by ATP, although potential difference and short-circuit current were reduced.


Sudan mucosal leishmaniasis.

Sudan mucosal leishmaniasis. New cases of mucosal leishmaniasis and the first case of espundia-like muco-cutaneous leishmaniasis are reported from the Sudan. Cases previously reported are reviewed and the geographical distribution, clinical features, pathology, immunology and treatment of the disease are described. The majority of cases came from the known kala azar endemic regions of the central Sudan. The disease was seen in adult males, it commonly affected the mouth and nose causing in some cases permanent damage to teeth and nasal septi. In the lesions, the cellular infiltrate was composed mainly of histiocytes, lymphocytes and plasma cells. The number of parasites present was inversely related to the number of lymphocytes but was not related to the number of plasma cells. The level of the increased serum immunoglobulins was not constantly correlated with the number of any particular cell in the infiltrate. Treatment with sodium stibogluconate (Pentostam) was effective in the majority of cases.


Fatal bowel infarction and sepsis: an unusual complication of systemic strongyloidiasis. A 58 year old Chinese male, one week after arriving in Canada from Hong Kong, presented with acute abdominal pain and diarrhoea which was rapidly followed by Escherichia coli infection causing septicaemia and meningitis. His past history revealed bronchial asthma for 15 years treated with steroids. At laparotomy, 7 days after the onset of symptoms, he was found to have extensive haemorrhagic infarction of the small bowel and right colon. Examination of the fibrosed mesenteric vessels revealed numerous filariform larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis, within the walls, and in all layers of bowel wall. The role of the parasite in the production of obliterative arteritis in this fatal case of haemorrhagic enteropathy is discussed. Clinical strongyloidiasis, in uncomplicated cases, varies from mild to severe with gastroenteritis, nausea, colicky abdominal pain, electrolyte imbalance and symptoms of malabsorption syndrome (MARCIAL-ROJAS, 1971). In malnourished individuals and patients with debilitating infections, either newly acquired or asymptomatic latent infection with S. stercoralis can assume severe dimensions (BROWN and PERNA, 1958; HUGHTON and HORN, 1959). Similarly, in patients on steroid (CRUZ et al., 1966; WILLIS and MWOKOLO, 1966; NEEFE et al., 1973) and immunosuppressive therapy for lymphomatous diseases or deficient in immune response (ROGERS and NELSON, 1966; RIVERA et al., 1970), systemic strongyloidiasis is often fatal. The increased frequency of auto-infection in such patients with a breached immune barrier is, however, unclear. Further complications of this infection due to severe enterocolitis result in sepsis, bacteraemia and meningitis (BROWN and PERNA, 1958; HUGHTON and HORN, 1959). This paper presents a fatal case of S. stercoralis infection which illustrates an uncommon if not unique, mechanism in its production of haemorrhagic enteropathy leading to sepsis and death.


Systemic amyloidosis in Uganda. An autopsy study. Seventy-nine cases of systemic amyloidosis were found in a survey of the autopsy records of 23 years at Mulago Hospital, Kampala, an incidence of 0-57%. The variable world incidence is described. Fifty-two cases were secondary to chronic inflammation and in 27 cases no underlying disease was apparent. Primary amyloid is more common than might be expected, and appears to occur at a younger age to that seen in developed countries. The organ distribution of primary and secondary amyloid is similar, with heavy renal involvement. These findings might be explained by chronic antigenic stimulation enhanced by impaired thymic dependent immunity. Secondary amyloidosis is not as common as would be anticipated in view of the high incidence of chronic inflammatory disease.


Micro-organisms in filarial larvae (Nematoda). Unusual bodies have been described in the hypodermal tissues of larval Dirofilaria immitis and Brugia pahangi. Ultrastructural evidence indicates that these bodies are probably Gram-negative micro-organisms. It appears that the presence of large numbers of these bodies in an early embryo may affect development adversely. Their importance at later stages of development of filariae is not known.


Opportunist mycobacterial pulmonary infection and occupational dust exposure: an investigation in England and Wales. This paper reports a study in England and Wales in which the industrial and non-industrial dust exposures and smoking habits of those whose pulmonary disease was due to opportunist mycobacterial infection were compared with a control group of similar age and same sex whose infection was with M. tuberculosis. Of 70 males, 53 were found to be infected with M. kansasi, 9 with M. xenopi, 6 with M. intracellulare and 2 with other opportunist mycobacteria. Only 8 females were found, of whom, 5 were infected with M. kansasi, and 3 with M. intracellulare, Those infected with M. kansasi were on average 6.5 years younger than those infected with other opportunist mycobacteria. There was no evidence of differences between patients infected with M. kansasi and their controls in various indices of past exposure to dust. A significantly higher proportion of patients infected with M. kansasi gave a history of current dust exposure at the time of diagnosis than patients infected with M. tuberculosis. There was an apparent association between infection with M. kansasi and exposure to the dusts of the metal grinding trades, but no association with a previous history of coal mining. The study suggests that the systematic establishment of the current occupations of all new patients suffering from disease due to M. kansasi should enable the occupations with high risk to be identified.


Occupation and Kansasii infection in Cardiff residents. Cardiff men with M. kansasii infections were matched with tuberculosis cases and their occupations compared. A significant association emerged between kansasii infection and certain types of dusty work.


[Anti-reflux operations in children with primary vesico-renal reflux]. Antireflux operations after the Grégoir-Lich technic was performed in 50 children on 72 ureters; resection of the distal ureteral portion with neoimplantation after the Politano-Leadbetter technic was accomplished in 31 patients on 46 ureters; nephroureterectomy-in 4 patients due to destruction of the organ. Morphological studies of 50 by the defect in development of muscles of the distal ureteral portion (diffuse, hyperplasia of muscle bundles, focal or segmental underdevelopment of muscles, etc). In insignificant muscle hypoplasia chronic inflammation resulting in sclerosis is of major importance for pathogenesis of insufficiency of the uretero-vesical segment. The changes described are manifested in the clinico-roentgenological picture of the disease. In reflux, grade III-IV, according to the R. A. Bridge and C. W. Roe classification resection and neoimplantation of the ureter after the Politano-Leadbetter technic seem to be indicated; in grade II antireflux Grégoir-Lich surgery may be performed.


[Complications of acute appendicitis in children]. Among 976 children with acute appendicitis 966 were operated upon, 169 of them (17.4%)-for common appendicitis, 401 (41.2%)-for phlegmonous appendicitis, 396 (40.4%)-for gangrenous appendicitis; 10 children were subjected to surgery due to the presence of appendicular infiltration. Preoperatively, in 137 (13.7%) patients peritonitis was observed: local-in 90, diffuse and progressive-in 47. There was noted a dependence of complications on the terms of the disease and patients' stay at the hospital prior to surgery. Following the operation in 98 (10.1%) patients different complications were observed: the postoperative wound suppuration (61), inflammatory processes in the abdomen (infiltrations, abscesses-in 33), intestinal obstruction (2), intra-abdominal hemorrhage (1), enteric fistula (1). There were no lethal issues. The preoperative complications were conditioned by gravity and advanced forms of the principal lesion, technical drawbacks in operation and treatment of purulent peritonitis.


[Acute hematogenic osteomyelitis in children, simulating "acute abdomen"]. The author reports three cases of acute hematogenic osteomyelitis, in which the symptoms of "acute abdomen" were predominant. In the first patient an erroneous laparotomy was performed. Some characteristic features in diagnosis of acute hematogenic osteomyelitis with such clinical picture are analysed.


[Diagnosis of intermuscular lipomas in children]. According to the data of literature intermuscular lipomas are observed in children, but rarely. The diagnosis of intermuscular lipomas presents certain difficulties since these tumors are frequently taken for sarcomas. Biopsy seems to be an important diagnostic method. From 1967 to 1972 the authors observed intermuscular lipomas in 3 children. One case report of a large intermuscular lipoma of the femur in a 2 year-old child is described. Surgery is considered to be the principal method of treatment for intermuscular lipomas. Recurrent intermuscular lipomas should be regarded as a warning against liposarcoma.


[Errors in diagnosis and treatment of injuries of cervical vertebrae]. An analysis of diagnostic and therapeutic errors is presented based on observations of 264 patients with injuries to the cervical spine and their sequelae. Errors in interpretation of x-ray films could arise through improper knowledge of the roentgenological picture of cervical vertebrae, especially of the first and second. In clinics of general surgery skeletal extension is employed only in limited cases, whereas in applying the Glisson loop axial deformities of the spine could be eliminated but not always to a full extent. Errors in estimating the capacity for work result in development of post-traumatic insufficiency of the cervical spine and osteochondrosis.


[Errors in recognition of acute diseases of organs of the abdominal cavity and urinary tract]. In the paper, an analysis of diagnostic errors in treatment of 731 patients is given. 499 of these patients were directed to the clinic with acute abdominal diseases, while clinical investigations revealed pathological changes in the urinary tract. In the second group consisting of 232 patients, directed to the clinic with the urinary tract pathology, acute diseases of the thoracic and abdominal organs were recognized. Based on the analysis of clinical findings and the literature data, the author indicates that in the differential diagnosis of these lesions the primary attention should be given to a careful questioning of patients and available methods of exploration, since complicated diagnostic apparatuses seem to be necessary only in special cases.


[Treatment of patients with injuries of the ligaments of the knee joint]. 178 patients with various ligamental injuries were treated according to the technique elaborated at the Institute. To restore ligaments preserved tendon homografts from the long fibular tendon with a remained terminal bone fragment were employed. The techniques of Gay-Growth-Smith and Sitenko underlie the methods of tendinoplasty applied. Following the operation therapeutic exercises, using water basin, massage, mechanotherapy and different kinds of physical therapy were employed differentially. Good results were obtained in a vast majority of patients (91.6%).


[Diagnosis of an osseous form of hyperparathyroidism]. Under observation were 66 (50.3%) of 130 patients with an ossific form of hyperparathyroidism. Fourty five patients showed the classical picture of Recklinghausen disease, and 21-only diffuse osteoporosis. The correct diagnosis would be established 4-5 years following the onset of the disease. During the period of most distinct manifestations pains in bones were noted in 93 per cent of cases. Two thirds of patients showed marked atonia and fatigue. Pathological fractures were multiple and were observed in 45 of 66 patients (totally 125 fractures). Great importance in establishing the diagnosis of the form of hyperparathroidism is attached to roentgenological investigation of all bones and biochemical assay of blood and urine.


[Differential diagnosis of cystic formation in the lungs]. Twenty cystic formations in the lung were studied in 9 male and 11 female patients. The study was based on the principle of correlation of clinical, roentgenological and morphological data. In 12 cases solitary pulmonary cysts were recognized. All of them proved to be pseudocysts, i. e. of an inflammatory-destructive origin: as a cleared abscess (5) or sanated tuberculous cavern (7). The cavities of true (bronchial) cysts were studied in 6 observations. It has been found that they are conditioned by previous tuberculous bronchoadenitis and related with scarring stenosis of bronchi. In one observation a cystic pulmonary formation was doubtlessly of a congenital character and proved to be an extrapulmonary bronchial cyst (extralobar sequestration).


[Functional morphology of gastric mucosa in the syndrome of celiac artery stenosis before and after decompression]. Under study were morphological changes in the gastric mucosa in 40 patients with the syndrome of abdominal ischemia due to a varying degree of stenosis of the celiac artery, and in 8 patients without any changes in the celiac artery. In 10 cases the mucous membrane was studied histoenzymologically. In a marked stenosis of the celiac artery there was observed an atrophy of the mucosa and decreased general activity of succinate-, lactate, and NAD-N-dehydrogenases on account of a decreased number of cells, in which these enzymes are revealed. In early stages of the disease restoration of blood flow would result in normalization of the mucous membrane structure.


[Bio-and histoenzymatic methods of examination in the evaluation of liver function in temporary compression of the hepato-duodenal ligament]. The experiments with a compression of the hepato-duodenal ligament for 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 minutes were conducted on 75 dogs. A correlation of the data obtained in bio-histoenzymatic studies on the liver condition after various terms of compression of the hepato-duodenal ligament allowed a conclusion as to irreversible changes in the liver after 50 minutes of exsanguination.


[Changes in blood serum proteins and blood electrolytes in patients with rectal fistulas and hemorrhoids]. Changes in blood serum and electrolytes were studied in 113 patients with rectal fistulas and hemorrhoid. The data obtained provided the opportunity for estimating objectively the intensity of inflammatory and destructive processes in pararectal cellular tissue.


[Prognostic importance of lymphocytosis in obliterating endarteritis]. Based on observations of 317 patients with obliterating endarteritis, the most persistant effect following the complex therapy was noted in patients showing lymphocytosis after the treatment. The overwhelming majority of patients with unfavourable issues of the therapy showed lymphopenia. So, of 67 patients showing lymphocytosis after 2--3 courses of the therapy 48 patients proved to be practically recovered. But there was no recovery among 30 lymphopenic patients, and in 13 cases the extremity had to be amputated. Among 220 patients showing the normal amount of lymphocytes the repeat course of the therapy resulted in a complete recovery in 19, in 2 cases the extremity was amputated.


[Histamine content in the tissue of lower limbs in varicose veins]. The histamine level was studied in the skin, subcutaneous cellular tissue, and in the vein of the upper third of the femur and lower third of the medial crural surface in 24 patients with venous varicosity of the lower extremities. The histamine concentration in the femoral skin was found to be within normal physiological limits. The histamine content in crural tissue was dependent on the presence of trophic changes in the skin, and it was the higher the more grave were these changes. As a result, the authors make a conclusion that histamine plays some role in formation of general microcirculatory shifts characteristic of development of trophic disorders in the skin in case of the disease concerned.


[Hemodynamic disorders in nonspecific chronic leg ulcers]. The state of regional hemodynamics in crural ulcers was studied in 180 patients by means of hemodynamic tests, oscillography, capillaroscopy, thermometry, phlebotonometry, phlebography. studies of blood biochemistry and gas content, as well as acidbase reserves. The changes observed proved to be not identical in varicous, thrombotic, ischemic, traumatic and pyogenic ulcers. The pathogenetic importance of and conditions for a secondary development of some or other hemodynamic disorders were determined, which being kept in mind permit an individual approach to the therapy, including the methods of correction of arterial and venous blood flow.


[Certain principles of prevention of recurrences after surgical treatment of tongue cancer]. Based on the analysis of late results, obtained in the combined treatment for cancer of the tongue in 138 patients, the materials of studying intra- and extraorganic lymphatic bed on 119 anatomical preparations of the tongue and bottom of the oral cavity, as well as the data of an acute experiment on 12 dogs, the authors offer reasonable grounds for some principles of prophylaxis against local recurrences in surgical removal of the tongue and bottom of the oral cavity for cancer. The suggested technic of surgical intervention can be used practically both by specialists of oncology and surgery, who are well experienced in the face and jaw surgery.


[Causes of death at the early post-traumatic period]. The causes of lethal issues in the acute period in 897 patients with grave associated injuries are analysed in detail. A definite morphological substrate of injuries would underline grave functional disturbances. The principal causes of mortality in trauma were as follows: acute massive blood loss (35.5%), primary damage of the ventilatory apparatus and acute respiratory insufficiency (24.8%), impairment of the specific function of vitally important organs (29.7%), or various combinations of these leading mechanisms of tanatogenesis. Most frequent hazards of an acute period of grave injury in the practice of treatment and reanimation (delayed diagnosis, inadequate infusion therapy, aspiration and regurgitation) are emphasized. Based on the results of the analysis made, some trends of improvement of modern methods of reanimation and treatment are delineated.


[Pelvic bone fractures in middle-aged and old persons]. Patients having pelvic fractures make 5% of all patients over 60 years of age with bone fractures. Transport traumas (traffic accidents) are predominating. Of 63 persons shock of a different degree due to massive intratissue blood loss was observed in 17. Three objects from this group died as a result of uncompensated shock (1) and septic complications (2). Forty six patients were admitted in a satisfactory condition, three of them died from concomitant complications (pneumonia, diabetic coma).


[Surgical fixation of the spine in fractures in the thoracic and lumbar segments]. Posterior alloplastic fixation of a damaged spinal portion was accomplished in 68 patients. In 20 cases fracture was associated with spinal dislocation. In such cases when a compressive spinal fracture is accompanied with insignificant signs of spinal concussion one should follow an expectation policy, since an early operation may be inherent in some additional trauma and result in inhibition of regenerative processes. For spinal fixation Lavsan was employed in 23 patients, a tightening device-in 28, metallic CITO plates-in 17. In 6 objects fixation with the plates was associated with arthrodesis of intervertebral junctures. Late results were studied in 49 patients. In 40 cases the results were good, in 4-satisfactory, in 5-poor. The best results were noted in fixation of the damaged portion with the plates, these should be preferred to other fixators in fracture-dislocation of the spine.


[Principles of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of occupational injuries in ballet dancers]. In the paper, a 20-year experience with practice of the sport and ballet-trauma department at Central Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedy, named after N. N. Priorov, and 7-year activities of the medical-ballet dispensary at Bolshoi Theatre of the USSR on diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis of occupational traumas in ballet-dancers are summarized. Some basic principles of diagnosis, treatment and prophylaxis in occupational injuries in ballet-dancers are described. As a result of the employed prophylactic measures the incidence of trauma has fallen thrice as low.


[Osteosynthesis with bone screws in closed oblique and screw-like fractures of the long tubular bones]. 295 patients subjected to screw osteosynthesis for closed oblique and screw-shape fractures of crural, brachial and antebrachial bones were under observation. The use of screws of a cylindrical form with a somewhat conus-like head and deep slit seems to be most rational for osteosynthesis. To apply screws properly two drills should be available. One should be equal to the diameter of a screw, the other-0.5 mm less. Following screw ostenosynthesis an adequate plaster dressing is applied for 2-3 months. The results of the treatment were good in 280 patients (95%) and poor-in 15 patients (5%). The causes of failure were as follows: improper indications to screw osteosynthesis, an early cessation of immobilization of an extremity in a plaster dressing, and too early loading on the extremity.


[Gunshot dowel injuries].

[Gunshot dowel injuries]. In the practice of building construction a panel mounting pistol is widely used for driving in special fastening parts. Injuries would frequently result from the fastening member ricocheting from the object. On the example of 19 injuries a necessity of surgical treatment in such patients due to grave damages of tissues and organs is warranted.


[Remote results of treatment of hypospadias]. Based on the experience with surgical treatment of 11 patients showing radiation necrosis, it is concluded that the vascular wall is resistant to the effect of x-rays. The presence of ulcer of any size with pulsating vessels on its bottom should not be the reason for rejecting surgery.


Mouse encephalitis induced by avirulent Semliki forest virus. Encephalitis caused by avirulent Semliki Forest virus was studied at regular intervals for 6 weeks in experimentally infected mice. The most obvious lesion was perivascular cuffing. Microglia were predominant near the vessels early in the infection. The cells of the cuffs were mostly lymphocytes. Although the virus produced acute encephalitis, which gradually resolved by 6 weeks, at no time were there abnormal neurological clinical signs. The cells of the brain and the immune response reacted to eliminate the virus.


Pathogenetic studies of infection of the bovine fetus with bovine viral diarrhea virus. II. Ocular lesions. Twenty-three susceptible pregnant heifers were inoculated with bovine viral diarrhea virus at 150 +/- 1 days of gestation. Seven additional heifers were inoculated between 65 and 115 days of gestation. Acute ocular lesions were seen in fetuses taken 17-21 days after inoculation of the dams at 150 days. By the fourth week, the acute lesions were beginning to resolve, and in newborn animals focal to total retinal atrophy was seen. The acute lesions were characterized by a mild to moderate retinitis that resulted in various degrees of destruction of the different layers, mononuclear cuffing of inner retinal vessels, proliferation of pigment epithelium, and choroiditis. Residually there was an absence of cellular elements in the atrophied areas of the retina, frequently a loss of layering and various numbers of pigment-containing cells. Moderately severe acute inflammation was seen in the retina of the fetus taken at 22 days after inoculation of its dam at 95 days. Ocular lesions did not occur in the other fetuses taken from heifers inoculated at earlier stages of gestation.


[Systemic cutaneous and subcutaneous amyloidosis in the horse]. A 9-year-old horse had numerous firm, painless nodules of the skin and subcutis. Moderately vascular granulation tissue with numerous uni- or multinuclear reticuloendothelial cells was in the nodules and the regional lymph nodes but not in the viscera. By using special stains and electron microscopy, widespread amyloid deposits, mainly in the cytoplasm of reticuloendothelial cells, were identified. Amyloid was probably produced within the reticuloendothelial cells, then expelled from the dying cell and deposited in the intercellular space.